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PLOTTING A COURSE TO SUCCESS

TEH-HU CARGOCEAN MANAGEMENT

CROSSWORLD MARINE SERVICES

A modern fleet

First-class crew & ship management

CONTI-LINES 100 years as leaders in shipping

Weka Marine Boxcoolers are efficient cooling systems designed for installation in most inland and sea-going marine applications. This video shows the fascinating production process at Weka Marine, as the team creates a Cu/Ni 90/10 Boxcooler. The Weka Boxcooler is a custom-engineered cooling solution designed to meet the specific demands of the engine manufacturer and the operating conditions of the vessel.

Managing Director John White Finance Director Filomena Nardi-Smith Editor Phil Nicholls Editorial Assistants Imogen Ward Hannah Barnett Feature Writers Andy Probert Romana Moares Richard Hagan Colin Chinery Business Development Manager Darren Foiret Research Editors Jeff Johnson Mark Simmonds Judi Wheaton-Mars Ginelle Lorenzo Natalie Martin

2 Inside marine

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John White Managing Director

Power gives way to sail Managing Director John White discusses swapping his trusty sailor’s knife for a laptop. elcome, Dear Reader, to your

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Efficiency Existing Ship Index measure-

latest edition of Inside Marine.

ment. This is mandatory for each ship,

As we approach the end of

as part of the yearly assessment of

another year, we have seen changes in

their carbon intensity indicator. Both

many industries, especially with the big

systems promote more sustainable and

push for more sustainable operations.

energy-efficient practices.

The maritime sector is no exception.

Recently, we have worked with many

From conversations with you, it has

companies who focus on advancements

become increasingly apparent that

in ship design, the use of ecological

autonomous ships will revolutionise the

materials and the development of hull

ocean transportation industry. Using an

coatings, all of which help to reduce fuel

array of technologies, including sensors,

consumption and pollutant emissions.

cameras and advanced algorithms, these

At a recent event, the Editor and I had

vessels can operate with less, or no,

the pleasure of meeting a company that

human intervention.

builds rigid sails for commercial tankers.

As mentioned above, the demand for

These sails contribute to a greener future

sustainability in the maritime industry

for the maritime industry and a healthier

grows, and there is an increasing focus on

planet for us all.

alternative fuels such as liquefied natural

As an ex-mariner, this is all quite baffling to

gas, biofuels, hydrogen and ammonia.

me. I still picture a ship with a crew pulling on

These will reduce the sector’s reliance

ropes, a bridge full of navigators, lookouts

on fossil fuels.

and helmsmen, and stokers in overalls in the

Since January 2023, the shipping industry

engine rooms! However, as the navigation

underwent a significant regulatory change

rules say, ‘power gives way to sail’… but now

with the introduction of the Energy

without the sailors.

n Inside marine 3

Teh-Hu Cargocean Management

intro 3

6

56

Director’s Comment

Country Focus 10 16

Special Reports 14 Innovations

66

Miklagard

Latest Marine News

EVENT PARTNERSHIPS 22 24 26 28 32

Upcoming events Inside marine minds COP28 Euromaritime Europort

SHIP operators, OWNERS & MANAGERS

74 Canfornav Eastern Car Liner Americas

84

38 United Overseas Group Crossworld Marine Services

92

Conti-Lines

102 Norstar Group 110

46 4 Inside marine

Cetus Maritime

116 Cool Carriers

122 Isle of Man Steam Packet Co

iM

Contents

174 Dredge Yard 180 EDR Antwerp Shipyard 186 NIBULON SSY 192 Eastern Shipbuilding Group

TECHNOLOGY & SERVICES SubCtech

Maritime Robotics

130

140

ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING

154

206

200

148

Gulf Marine Services

North Star

Weka Marine

eConowind

Versilia Supply Service

160 212 DEGRA

International Naval Works

VDR Marine Equipment 224

166

ompany

218 Verhoef

SHIPYARDS

Ultraguard Antifouling

232 Inside marine 5

COUNTRY FOCUS Latest developments from the Korean industry

KOREA Ports of Kaohsiung and Busan sign historic sister port agreement The Ports of Kaohsiung and Busan convened an official sister port signing ceremony at the headquarters of Busan Port Authority (BPA) in August 2023. The Sister Port agreement was signed by TIPC Vice President & Port of Kaohsiung CEO Chin-jung Wang and BPA Vice President Ja-Rim Koo and witnessed by TIPC Chairman Hsien-yi Lee, BPA President Joon-Suk Kang, and Taipei Mission in Korea (Busan Office) Director Cheng-kai Kuo. his new relationship formally recog-

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TIPC respectively signed memoranda of

nises the decades of good relations

understanding with Busan International

fostered between the two countries’

Cruise Institute (BICI) and the Busan Port

largest commercial ports. TIPC Chairman Lee

Authority in 2018 and 2019, committing the

noted that the new sister port relationship

signatories to share cruise-industry-related

between Kaohsiung and Busan marks a new

experience, strategies, resources, and

milestone in bilateral friendship. Looking to

customers, and creating a solid foundation

the future, he expressed his expectation

for the development of a trans-Asia cruise

that ongoing exchanges and cooperation

travel sector.

between the two ports will promote mutual development and prosperity.

Notably, the port-fee discount incentives announced this year by TIPC

Port of Kaohsiung currently maintains

have successfully enticed international

sister port relationships with 17 ports in

cruise line business to Taiwan’s ports,

12 countries, including the United States,

propelling cruise ship calls at Port of

the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy,

Kaohsiung to all-time highs. Moreover,

Belgium, Canada, Germany, the United

in addition to Resorts World One running

Arab Emirates, Russia, China and Poland.

regular home port operations at Port

This agreement with Busan establishes

of Kaohsiung, Costa Serena will be

not only Port of Kaohsiung’s 18th sister

launching home port operations between

port connection, but also its first sister

Port of Kaohsiung and Japan starting in

port relationship in South Korea.

late September.

6 Inside marine

n

COUNTRY FOCUS Latest developments from the Norwegian industry

NORWAY Hexagon Purus Maritime receives support from Innovation Norway to build maritime hydrogen fuel system Hexagon Purus Maritime, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hexagon Purus, has been granted support from Innovation Norway to build a full-scale model of a maritime hydrogen fuel system, the first of its kind in Norway, in Langevågen, close to Ålesund. Innovation Norway supports companies in developing their competitive advantage and to enhance innovation. The demo model will showcase solutions available for zero emission shipping. he full-scale model will include

T

Managing Director, Hexagon Purus

a fuel system with four type-four

Maritime, said.

and a piping and control system. The

carrier on vessels where the operating

demo model will be used for training with

profile does not suit batteries,” Magne

operators and engineering students in

Aarsnes, Senior Customer Adviser,

a safe environment.

Innovation Norway, explained. “We are

hydrogen cylinders, fuelling nozzle

The model is developed by

“Hydrogen will be an important energy

eager to support players who are demon-

combining the expertise of Hexagon

strating the role hydrogen can play and

Purus Maritime’s own engineers with

helping to move the industry forward.”

the tried and tested hydrogen fuel

Located in the maritime cluster in Norway,

systems made by Hexagon Purus.

Hexagon Purus Maritime will establish a

These are in operation on a wide

Development Centre in Langevågen for the

variety of mobility applications across

maritime industry, where engineers, ship

the world today, such as buses and

owners, regulatory bodies and students can

heavy-duty trucks.

meet and learn the functions of a hydrogen

“We are proud to see that Innovation

fuel system.

Norway recognises the potential in both

The project is already well underway,

Hexagon Purus Maritime and the role

and an official launch of the Development

hydrogen can play in decarbonising

Center and demo model will take place

the maritime industry,” Robert Haugen,

in 2024.

n Inside marine 7

COUNTRY FOCUS Latest developments from the Türkiye industry

TÜRKIYE Varamar bridges east-west gap with İstanbul opening Varamar, a carrier of breakbulk, dry bulk, oversized and containerised cargo, has responded to growing customer demand in the Caspian and Middle East by opening a branch in İstanbul, Türkiye. region, and would therefore like to lay the foundation for the company's future growth on the crossroads between east and west,” Managing Director of Varamar İstanbul, Emre Öncü said.

“Varamar has been providing trusted shipping solutions since its formation in 2009, and our new operation in İstanbul will offer the same full package of services, including document support, port operations monitoring and engineering, he office, headed by newly-appointed

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as well as unrivalled cargo care and

Managing Director of Varamar

customer service.”

branch openings in Shanghai, Houston and

the development of transport solutions for

Athens. Öncü has extensive experience in

dismantled plants, factories, wind turbines,

shipping, previously holding a senior char-

bridges, vehicles and even stadiums. The

tering role at Core Shipping in İstanbul.

company has established its own shipping

İstanbul, Emre Öncü, follows recent

Varamar’s extensive experience includes

September’s branch opening was a

methods based on in-house competency

logical step for Varamar, which operates

and is also involved in tramp shipments of

semi-liner services to and from Europe, the

dry-bulk cargo and containers.

Middle East, Asia and Africa – all of which

Varamar has representative offices in

serve the Mediterranean and Black seas,

Europe (Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy,

as well as Türkiye.

Türkiye and Ukraine); North America

“We see the growing potential of Türkiye, and the wider Caspian and Middle East

8 Inside marine

(Canada, the USA); Asia (China) and the Middle East (United Arab Emirates).

n

COUNTRY FOCUS Latest developments from the USA’s industry

USA Zelim teams up with US Coast Guard to trial AI in search and rescue The US Coast Guard Research and Development Center has signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Zelim, a start-up based in Edinburgh, Scotland, to jointly explore the potential application and effectiveness of AI-enabled detection and tracking technology in search and rescue. inding someone in the water is the

F

operator by consistently scanning the

most fundamental challenge that

searched area looking for anomalies and

search and rescue (SAR) organisa-

providing visual and audible alerts.

tions face around the world. Over the last

The US Coast Guard has identified in

century, this task has been undertaken by

its Strategic Plan that rapidly advancing

SAR Units, their pilots and, more recently,

technologies, including those in artificial

drone pilots who often scan the sea surface

intelligence, and machine learning, need

for hours looking for an object no larger than

to be harnessed for possible use in

a football, as much of the human body

mission execution.

remains hidden below the surface.

With human-in-the-loop searches,

The overarching objective of the CRADA is to determine methods to evaluate

detection performance is inconsistent;

the effectiveness of AI technology with

human eyes are vulnerable to dust, age,

unclassified optical sensors in various

lighting, glare and fatigue. As a result, the

environmental conditions.

n

success of a search can depend on the eyesight and level of fatigue of the individual pilot and Search Unit.

Over the last three years, Zelim has been developing ZOE, a solution that employs AI to detect and track multiple people, boats or target objects in the water by day or night, storm, or fog. ZOE aids the search

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To have your company’s latest product, technology or concept included in Inside Marine, contact us today.

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Inside marine 9

SPECIAL REPORT An innovative USV on show at Goodwood.

Goodwood FoS: AutoNaut Managing Director John White and Editor Phil Nicholls were lucky enough to be invited to the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Alongside seeing some awesome cars, this was also a fantastic opportunity to chat with a range of innovative maritime technology companies. he Future Lab exhibit sat at the heart

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Jesse Loynes, Fleet Manager at AutoNaut,

of Goodwood Festival of Speed. This

explained the ingenious features of the USV

amazing pavilion featured a broad

on display. The solar panels on the deck

range of futuristic and interactive innova-

of the USV power the assorted monitoring

tions, all showcasing centred around the

equipment on board the vessel, with the

theme of ‘technology for a better world.’

payload varying according to the project.

Much to our surprise, Future Lab focused

The 3m AutoNaut has 175W peak output

on more than just cars. The last thing we

from the solar PV panels on deck, whilst

had expected to see at the Festival of

the 5m has 300W peak output. The actual

Speed was an Uncrewed Surface Vessel

output depends on the latitude of opera-

(USV) propelled by the motion of the waves,

tions, the season and the weather.

but that was precisely what the engineers at AutoNaut were exhibiting.

10 Inside marine

However, the truly innovative engineering was in respect of the four keel

www.autonautusv.com/home

mounted foils positioned fore and aft

About AutoNaut

that propel the USV. Through clever

AutoNaut is a UK company that designs,

use of springs, the AutoNaut USV is

builds and operates USVs. The company

powered by energy it harvests from the

has manufacturing and operation facili-

natural movement of the waves. In a flat

ties in Sussex and Devon. AutoNaut is part

calm, the system can be assisted by an

of the Seiche Water Technology Group,

auxiliary propeller.

which provides monitoring and measure-

Extensive hydrodynamic testing has refined the technology, while field trials

ment solutions for the marine and utilities in the UK and across the world.

and missions have proven its robustness

Seiche is the UK’s leading specialist in

in stormy seas. The AutoNaut is designed

underwater noise and marine mammal

to be self-righting and resilient in all

monitoring, specialising in the design,

weather and has survived 65kt storm

development and manufacture of

conditions with 10m waves, capsizing and

underwater measurement and acoustic

righting four times and successfully con-

systems together with advanced visual

tinuing with the mission.

detection systems.

n Inside marine 11

SPECIAL REPORT Revolutionary maritime technology spotted at Goodwood.

Goodwood FoS:

BAR Technologies Managing Director John White and Editor Phil Nicholls were lucky enough to be invited to the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Alongside seeing some awesome cars, this was also a fantastic opportunity to chat with a range of innovative maritime technology companies.

hile there was incredible car tech-

W

installation is a retrofit or combined with

nology on display at Goodwood,

a fully optimised newbuild hull. Initially

the marine industry was not

aimed at bulk carriers and tankers, further

forgotten. At the BAR Technologies stand,

variations will be developed by BAR for

Chief Technological Officer Simon Schofield

other large ship types.

talked us through an innovative maritime

“WindWings are expected to save 1.5

project. BAR Technologies has invested sig-

tonnes of fuel, per wing installation, per

nificant resources over the past years to

day, and save 4.65 tonnes of CO2 per

become a key player in cutting emissions

WindWing per day – if using heavy fuel oil,”

within the marine industry. That research

BAR Technologies CEO John Cooper said.

resulted in the WindWings technology.

“This makes the technology not only a

WindWings combines wind propulsion

pre-eminent choice for vessel owners and

with route optimisation. This could

operators racing to reduce carbon emis-

increase the fuel efficiency of vessels in

sions from their fleets, but also a highly

excess of 30% depending on whether the

compelling business case.”

12 Inside marine

BAR has already secured two signed contracts for work on new vessels combining WindWings with hull optimisation for a bespoke solution. One size does not fit all, so BAR has developed a WindWings optimised around the most common vessel sizes where either three or four WindWings will be deployed.

In August, the ground-breaking WindWings set sail on open waters. This maiden voyage tested this new technology that will bring cutting edge wind propulsion to commercial shipping for the first time.

Mitsubishi Corporation’s Pyxis Ocean, chartered by Cargill, is the first vessel to be retrofitted with two WindWings. These large wing sails measure up to 37.5 metres in height and can be fitted to the deck of cargo ships to harness the power of wind.

Produced by industrialisation partner Yara Marine Technologies, WindWings are expected to generate average fuel savings of up to 30% on new build vessels, which could be even higher if used in combination with alternative fuels. The installation of these wings took place at the COSCO shipyard in China, enabling the Pyxis Ocean to conduct her maiden voyage with this innovative technology.

n

www.bartechnologies.uk Inside marine 13

INNOVATION FOCUS Latest innovations from the marine industry

Launch of Danelec Connect digital platform unlocks new vessel & fleet operational efficiencies Leading maritime operational and safety technology company Danelec has launched Danelec Connect, a new digital platform designed to boost operational efficiency, safety and sustainability through significantly enriched Ship Performance Monitoring. A powerful cloud-based solution, Danelec’s new software is specifically designed to optimise diverse marine operations and address the many intricacies of vessel, fleet and voyage management.

The new platform’s automated reporting further ensures effortless emissions compliance with intuitive graphical representation.

It also employs intelligent notifications to prompt swift action in response to sensor irregularities and missing data, facilitating comprehensive emission reporting and

T

performance analysis.

real-time data from a wide range and

a modular approach to Ship Performance

variety of sensors and systems on board.

Monitoring. Ship owners can select and

Acting as an all-encompassing data pool,

combine four plans, ensuring that cus-

the platform fuels more accurate decision

tomers only pay for what is needed.

hrough Danelec Connect, ship owners and operators can access high-quality, high-frequency and

making, boosts operational efficiency, and

Designed with flexibility at its core, Danelec Connect breaks the mould through

With a robust API, the new digital platform

supports countless vessel and business

from Danelec provides for seamless data

initiatives, from reducing fuel consumption

integration and allows users to effortlessly

and greenhouse gas emissions to

transfer data to their chosen cloud or

engendering new methods to maximise

in-house databases, or even integrate

equipment and technology ROI.

data with third-party software platforms.n

14 Inside marine

Shipnext secures substantial Belgian grant to boost AI in shipping Leading online cargo platform Shipnext has secured a substantial, multi-year grant from Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO) to strengthen the adoption of predictive analytics and AI in the supply chain. dedicated team based at Shipnext’s

A

carriers, will receive an initial grant of

headquarters in Antwerp – Europe’s

€400,000 in the coming months. Over

second largest port – will now

the next five years, further funding will

embark on an ambitious project to develop

be provided by VLAIO, which aims to

a supply chain volatility forecast, helping

stimulate entrepreneurship in the

the platform’s users to understand likely

Flanders region by supporting innovative

transportation costs several weeks in

businesses with financial subsidies.

advance, as well as anticipated demand

“Back in 2016, Shipnext saw that the

for shipping assets.

A new algorithm will be created, making

shipping industry was drowning in emails – it was obvious that processing freight

use of various freight matrices and

requests manually could not go on

a range of data sources for specialised

forever,” Alexander Varvarenko, Founder

commodity trade-related analytics. The

and CEO of Shipnext, said.

project, initially designed for users ship-

“Thanks to VLAIO support, we will now

ping commodities such as steel, coal,

be able to take our offering to the next-

chemicals and agricultural products,

level – helping users accurately anticipate

will utilise natural language processing,

freight rates and demand for ships ahead

machine learning, big-data analysis

of time. The culmination of our project will

and predictive analytics.

be a highly accurate forecast of freight

Shipnext, which has around 3,500

market volatility, thereby leading to more

daily users including brokers, traders,

sustainable supply chains, both in Europe

shippers, forwarding companies and

and internationally.”

n Inside marine 15

MARINE NEWS Latest news in the marine industry

Send your latest news to: media@insidepublication.com

Kongsberg Digital signs contract to digitalise entire Höegh Autoliners’ fleet and upcoming Aurora Class newbuilds

W

ith a shared vision to lead the

predictability and improve safety,

way in green maritime tech-

Höegh Autoliners has been a vital pilot

nology, Kongsberg Digital and

customer for Kongsberg Digital, testing

Höegh Autoliners have worked closely

new technology such as Digital Twin for

together since 2019. Expanding their col-

the martime industry and applications

laboration, the two companies have for-

such as Vessel Performance.

malised an agreement to digitalise the

Höegh Autoliners has an ambitious new

remaining vessels in Höegh Autoliners’

build programme, with its ammonia-ready

fleet and their upcoming Aurora-class

dual-fuel Aurora class vessels – the

vessels. This strategic move solidifies

world’s largest and most environmentally

their commitment to leveraging digital

friendly Pure Car, Truck Carriers. Höegh

solutions for increased efficiency and

Autoliners has ordered twelve Aurora

sustainability in the maritime industry.

class vessels – expecting the delivery of

Höegh Autoliners is a leading global

two every six months starting from the

provider of RoRo transportation services delivering cars, high and heavy, and

second half of 2024.

The Aurora class vessels will have

breakbulk cargoes across the world.

Vessel Insight installed when they embark

The company operates around 40 RoRo

on their maiden voyages. The contract

vessels in global trade systems and

also ensures continued roll-out of Vessel

makes about 3,000 port calls each year.

Insight to Höegh Autoliners' existing fleet,

In 2019, Höegh Autoliners was the first

except for a few older vessels, and con-

customer of Vessel Insight, Kongsberg

nection to the cloud through Kongsberg

Digital's cloud infrastructure. To exploit

Digital's maritime cloud infrastructure

new ways to reduce emissions, increase

throughout 2023.

16 Inside marine

n

Inside marine 17

MARINE NEWS Latest news in the marine industry

Send your latest news to: media@insidepublication.com

Robosys and Landau Marine announce a pioneering collaboration based Maritime Autonomy and

AI

and Robosys brings together a leading UK

Navigational specialist, Robosys

integrator-installer-service provider with

Automation, and leading UK

a proven AI maritime autonomy software

specialist installer and integrator, Landau

developer, to enable customers to swiftly

Marine, have announced a new pioneering

convert their vessels to fully autonomous

collaboration that enables full-stack mar-

and/or lean-crewed operations.

itime autonomy for both new-build and retrofit vessels and naval craft.

Robosys’ Voyager AI software enables

Integration of Robosys Automation’s Voyager AI Vessel is a full-stack autonomy solution that is complemented by artificial

crewed, lean-crewed, optionally unmanned,

intelligence, enabling fully autonomous

and fully unmanned vessel operations at

unmanned surface vessels (USVs). Suited

the switch of a button. It delivers efficient

for surveillance, surveying, warfare and

Remote Control and reasoned Autonomous

patrolling duties, Voyager AI is vessel,

operations from a remote operations centre

propulsion and sensor systems agnostic.

or ground control station, either ashore or afloat from a mothership.

Robosys’ Voyager AI Vessel solution offers IMO Degree 4 autonomy, which is ideal for

UK headquartered Landau Marine supplies

the defence sector as it can be retrofitted

installation, integration and maintenance ser-

to almost any vessel or workboat. Robosys

vices for numerous defence clients; including

Automation’s systems offer remote control

NavyX, the Royal Navy’s Autonomy and

as well as advanced and intelligent

Lethality Accelerator. Landau’s capabilities

autonomous navigation, with platform and

encompass all aspects of technology inte-

payload control which can be integrated to

gration linked to vessel design and construc-

most vessel systems, together with collision

tion, with a particular focus on zero emission

avoidance and systems monitoring options,

technology and decarbonisation initiatives.

delivering a proven and trusted full-stack

The new collaboration between Landau

18 Inside marine

maritime AI autonomy solution.

n

Groundbreaking Dutch surveillance system now available in the UK market rainCreators, an innovative leader in AI

B

Major ports like the Port of London,

and digital inspection solutions, was

Southampton, Liverpool, Felixstowe and

excited to announce the availability

various other facilities contribute to a

of its maritime surveillance system, SEAGULL,

bustling maritime environment. As a result,

for use in the United Kingdom. SEAGULL is an

effectively monitoring all maritime traffic is

advanced SaaS solution specifically

a complex challenge. Effective digital mar-

designed for continuous and automated

itime surveillance and monitoring solutions,

vessel monitoring for ports, harbours, coasts,

such as SEAGULL, can therefore play a

bridges, locks and waterways.

crucial role in ensuring the safety and

In January 2023, BrainCreators proudly

efficiency of shipping activities in the UK.

introduced SEAGULL in the Netherlands.

SEAGULL's capabilities are diverse: it

Since its launch, SEAGULL has been success-

adeptly distinguishes among various ship

fully rolled-out by its launching customer,

types, gauges the speed of passing vessels

Scheveningen Harbour (The Hague), and

and meticulously logs entry and exit times.

is currently being implemented at various

An automatic logbook captures all develop-

other ports and municipalities.

ments, facilitating comprehensive evalua-

The expansion of SEAGULL to the United Kingdom is a logical step for BrainCreators.

tions and analyses.

Via an intuitive and user-friendly dash-

The UK experiences significantly higher

board, SEAGULL's technology provides

maritime traffic due to its geographical

operators with comprehensive insights into

positioning as an island nation and its

maritime activities, encompassing vessel

prominent role in international trade and

types, dates, times, directions and speeds.

shipping. The UK boasts an extensive coast-

Moreover, the system proactively notifies

line, numerous ports and maritime routes

operators when vessels exceed speed

that serve as crucial nodes for trade,

limits or traverse during night-time hours,

transportation and logistics.

thereby augmenting maritime safety.

n

Inside marine 19

iM seven seas, five oceans, one voice

EVENT PARTNERSHIPS A selection of event previews and quotes, followed by interviews about Euromaritime and Europort

12-14

Oceanolo

30 Jan - 01 Feb

2024

Euromaritime At the heart of the maritime sector, Euromaritime brings together all the key players in the French, European and Mediterranean maritime industries, with a particular focus on maritime and inland waterway transport, ports, shipbuilding and ship repair, plus the maritime technologies of the future.

Oc foru ern science and three-day c attendees a showcase t

[click h

[click here] for weblink

29-30 November

2023

Arctic Shipping Summit The 17th edition of the summit brings together leading executives and experts from across the entire value chain including ship-owners, ship-managers, coastguards and governmental transport authorities, meteorologists, consultants, and technology providers for two days of informative presentations, interactive Q&A sessions and networking opportunities. [click here] for weblink

21-22 November IMPA Singapore

Held at Asia’s top event venue, the IM and conference provides the perfect game for meeting and networking w contacts. The two-day exhibition features a p insightful, free-to-attend, drop-in workshops. [click here] for weblink 22 Inside marine

4 March 2024

ogy International

eanology International is the leading um where industry, academia and govnments connect with the world’s marine d ocean technology communities. The conference will welcome over 8,000 and enable more than 500 exhibitors to the latest ocean technologies.

here] for weblink

03-07 June

2024

Posidonia In 2024 the Union of Greek Shipowners and the whole Greek shipping community will again welcome to Posidonia the huge global shipping family from over 90 countries.

The purpose of Posidonia is to turn the challenges facing the shipping industry into successful business opportunities. [click here] for weblink

2023

MPA Singapore exhibition t opportunity to raise the with key marine procurement packed agenda including Why not give your event exclusive coverage to thousands of readers and connections globally?

Contact us: events@insidepublication.com Inside marine 23

INSIDE MARINE MINDS Inside Marine asks the experts about their personal experience in the industry

inside

marine minds benefits do you see from attending industry Question: What events and conferences, either face-to-face or online?

networking and helps build long-term relationships. The explosion of Teams calls is good to maintain relations, but

“

meeting people face-to-face is essential.

Events enable us to talk as a group, push ideas forward and spark greater innovation for the good of the industry.

Simon Dawkins, MD,

“

Conferences and seminars give us an

“

“

It is a huge benefit, as it encourages

opportunity to tell our story, explain how our innovation can significantly reduce carbon emissions, and help us gain greater exposure across the market.

Frank Nieuwenhuis, CEO, eConowind

“

The benefit of these events is that

we’re a small company with only 15

SD Marine Interiors

people: we’re not on the front page of

They are pretty important to us

ment, knowledge and experience to do

“

“

newspapers. We have top-notch equip-

because it’s an opportunity to see

our jobs, but to get more business, to

what’s happening in the market or what

raise awareness of our capabilities, then

special demands are incoming and how

we need to show our face at conferences

the market is changing. For example, the

and online meetings.

need for larger batteries came from feedback in these conferences.

Fred van Dort, MD, VDR Marine Equipment

To serve the market with the right products, we have to be there and be aware of

and conversations are just better.

“

Sören Johannsen, COO,

Philippe Trouillard, Commercial Officer,

SubCtech

EDR Antwerp Shipyard

“

events, however, are not the same as

personal contact. Face-to-face contact

24 Inside marine

“

what’s happening in the market. Online

Proximity to clients and stakeholders

is key during events. Shipping is a peoples’ business and trust is gained by direct contact and face-to-face meetings.

“

there is no substitute for face-to-face

“

communication, and we are very excited

country, visiting our clients and going into

to attend relevant industry events and

their sites to see what they’re doing and

conferences where we enjoy forging new

understand their needs.

We love to interact with our clients,

suppliers, shareholders, investors, bankers and other industry peers. We believe that

One of the most important core

values, and part of our DNA, is that we try to be as close as possible to the client.

I have been travelling from country to

relationships, cultivating existing ones, brainstorming, initiating and advancing

Events give us a chance to talk to people

new deals or projects.

in person, to keep that connection, to understand their needs and challenges,

With Covid behind us, we look forward

and also to see what new technologies

“

to resuming our regular schedule of

are on the market that we can work

participating in such events, especially

on together. Whether as a partner or

ones which focus on new technologies

supplier, it allows us to increase the cata-

that are introduced in our industry.

logue of solutions we can provide for constantly understand everything that’s

Euroseas

“

available on the market.

Attending shows can help showcase

your products and boost brand recognition.

Frédéric Minssieux, CEO, Clauger

“

But it pays to pick and choose which ones to attend, as some shows can be better

than others for small to medium companies wanting to meet the real decision makers.

Chris Ryan, Technical Director,

“

our clients by giving us an opportunity to

Anastasios Aslidis, CFO & Treasurer,

iM

Get Involved

We would love to hear your answers, so send an email over to our Editorial Manager, Phil Nicholls, and share your thoughts with all our readers.

media@insidepublication.com

Ultraguard Antifouling Inside marine 25

EVENT PREVIEW Special focus on COP28

COP28 UAE unning from 30th November to

R

rethink, reboot and refocus the

12th December 2023 at Expo City,

climate agenda.

stone moment when the first Global

Secretary alongside the UN Climate

Stocktake (GST) will provide a compre-

Change High-Level Champion and the UAE

hensive assessment of progress since

Youth Climate Champion, I will strive to

adopting the Paris Agreement. This will

build consensus amongst parties to drive

help align efforts on climate action,

climate action. Together, we will prioritise

including measures that need to be put

efforts to accelerate emissions reductions

in place to bridge the gaps in delivery.

through a pragmatic energy transition,

The COP28 UAE Presidency will work to

reform land use and transform food sys-

ensure that the world responds to the GST

tems. We will work to mobilise solutions for

with a clear plan of action.

vulnerable countries, operationalise loss

Dubai, COP28 UAE will be a mile-

This event marks a halfway point. It has been seven years since Paris, with seven

“Working with the UNFCCC Executive

and damage, and deliver the most inclusive Conference possible.”

years to go to 2030. The world must respond to the facts: there is a need to

The ocean at COP28

reduce emissions by 43% before 2030

This is a large event, so it would be impos-

and course correct on adaptation, finance

sible to cover it all in a single preview.

and loss, and damage.

However, here is one COP28 topic that is

The UAE has pledged to deliver a transformational COP of action.

“At COP21 in 2015, the world agreed to

particularly relevant to Inside Marine.

The ocean is a fundamental part of the climate

limit global warming to 1.5°C compared

system and the global

to pre-industrial levels by 2050,”

response to climate

HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, President-

change. The global

Designate for COP28 UAE, said. “To remain

ocean covers 71%

on target, science tells us that emissions

of the surface of

must be halved by 2030. We only have

our blue planet.

another seven years to meet that goal.

It has long taken

COP28 UAE is a prime opportunity to

the brunt of the

26 Inside marine

30 Nov - 12 Dec 2023, Expo City Dubai https://www.cop28.com/en / https://unfccc.int/

impact of human-made global heating.

all ecosystems, including oceans, and

It has absorbed about 90% of the heat gen-

the protection of biodiversity.

erated by rising greenhouse gas emissions

More recently, there was decision 1/CP.27,

trapped in the Earth’s system and taken in

of the Sharm el-Sheikh Implementation

about 25% of carbon emissions, causing

Plan. Here, Parties decided that the annual

devastating impacts and increasing risks

ocean and climate change dialogues

on ocean and coastal life and coastal com-

will, from 2023, be facilitated by two

munities’ lives and livelihoods.

co-facilitators, selected by Parties

Parties to the UNFCCC recognised

biennially. These co-facilitators will be

the importance of protecting the ocean

responsible for deciding the topics for and

and its ecosystems in the Convention

conducting the dialogue, in consultation

and Paris Agreement. In the Convention,

with Parties and observers.

Parties agreed to protect the climate

The Ocean and Climate Change

system (Article 2), defined as the totality

Dialogue 2023 was aimed at

of the atmosphere, hydrosphere,

strengthening ocean-climate action

biosphere and geosphere and their

at national level and focused on

interactions (Article 1.3). Meanwhile, in

the topics of coastal ecosystem

the Paris Agreement, Parties noted the

restoration, including blue carbon,

importance of ensuring the integrity of

plus fisheries and food security. n

Inside marine 27

EVENT PREVIEW Hugues du Plessis d’Argentré, Managing Director at SOGENA, spoke with Inside Marine

Euromaritime 2024

Running from 30 January to 1 February 2024, Euromaritime brings together all the key players in the French, European and Mediterranean maritime industries, with a particular focus on maritime and inland waterway transport, ports, shipbuilding and ship repair, plus the maritime technologies of the future.

Hugues du Plessis d’Argentré, Managing Director at SOGENA, answered questions for Jasmine Lodge.

Looking ahead to Euromaritime in 2024,

economic and societal demands. One of the

what do you see are the benefits to

changes in 2024 concerns the Coastguard

businesses of attending the show?

sector and government action at sea.

As in all industrial sectors, competition is

Please outline the advantages of exhibiting

fierce in the maritime sector, both nationally

at Euromaritime?

and internationally. To win business, you need to meet customers and partners. That’s why Euromaritime exists, and that’s why it’s so important for companies to take part.

How has Euromaritime evolved since the last show?

We’re continuing from one show to the next, with changes linked to advances in technology and the need to respond to

28 Inside marine

www.euromaritime.fr Do you consider these themes to be the main industry challenges for shipping for the future? How far do events such as Euromaritime go in helping companies overcome such difficulties?

Euromaritime is the meeting place for the maritime industry. Exhibiting at Euromaritime

In fact, these themed areas cover many of

means having a presence on the French,

the key issues of the moment. Euromaritime

European and Mediterranean business

will be a fine showcase of what is available,

scene. This year, for the first time, we have

and what is to come, to meet the challenges

invited a large number of foreign delega-

of energy and ecological transition.

tions and buyers. A great opportunity for the maritime industry to grow.

What part of Euromaritime are you personally looking forward to the most?

Can you provide a brief insight into each of the four thematic areas at Euromaritime?

I’m interested in everything in the maritime sector, but for this edition of Euromaritime,

• (SEA-ITsecurity) In this area, France Cyber

I’ll be focusing in particular on the three

Maritime will be bringing together exhibitors

topics of energy transition, protection of the

offering solutions to protect onboard IT

oceans and improving the ability of states

systems and combat cyber threats.

to take action at sea with well-equipped

• (SEAresearch) With our partner Mer-Veille,

and well-trained coastguards.

n

we will bring together research centres and universities working on maritime issues.

• (SEAnnovation) This is a space dedicated to start-ups in the maritime world. They will be exhibiting their innovations and presenting them to the show’s visitors and manufacturers on a regular basis.

• (SEAprotect) Here we want to tackle the serious issue of protecting and preserving oceans from industrial and human pollution.

Inside marine 29

Inside marine 31

EVENT PREVIEW Director Europort Raymond Siliakus answered questions for Inside Marine

Europort 2023 Held in Rotterdam on 7-10

With Europort coming up on 7-10 November

November, Europort 2023 is the

2023, what would you say are the advan-

international maritime meeting

tages for companies attending the show?

place for innovative technology and complex shipbuilding. Director

For many decades, Europort has been the exhibition and meeting place where

Europort Raymond Siliakus offered

the industry gets together to connect,

Inside Marine an insight into what

cooperate and innovate. Europort is held

visitors will experience at the show.

in Rotterdam, the Maritime Capital of Europe, and one of the leading maritime cities in the world. Within a range of 200 kilometres, Europe’s largest ports, offshore and dredging contractors, superyacht builders and shipyards are active, working closely together with high-level research centres, equipment suppliers and numerous ship owners. And every

Director Europort Raymond Siliakus

two years these stakeholders come together at Europort along with visitors from all over the world. Therefore, it is safe to say that Europort belongs to the world’s largest maritime meeting and knowledge-sharing B2B platforms.

What is new for Europort this year?

Last time, we were very fortunate that Europort could take place despite Covid.

However, there were still some travel restrictions, mainly from continents other than Europe. Nevertheless, we had a very successful event, with many satisfied visi-

32 Inside marine

Rotterdam Ahoy 7-10th November, 2023 www.europort.nl

What might a visitor expect from a trip to Europort?

A trip to Europort promises a diverse and enriching experience for visitors, with exhibitors showcasing the latest products, technologies and services. Visitors can witness the latest advancements in automation, digitalisation, sustainable solutions and tors and exhibitors. This year, we see that

other transformative technologies that are

Europort's appeal extends again beyond

shaping the industry's future.

Europe, with the return of the Chinese and

Europort not only focuses on the profes-

South Korean pavilions, for example.

sional aspects, but also offers a social side

In addition, we see that the world is

that enhances the overall experience for

changing even faster with all the digital

visitors. Europort organises various social

developments and the emergence of AI.

events, receptions and networking gather-

Hence this year, for the first time, we have

ings, offering attendees a chance to relax,

a Digitalisation Area where frontrunners

socialise and engage in informal discussions.

in digital transition and smart connectivity

Overall, a trip to Europort provides an

are concentrated and can get visitors

excellent opportunity to explore the latest

connected most effectively.

trends, forge new connections and gain insights into the maritime and offshore

How many exhibitors and

industry while enjoying the vibrant atmo-

visitors are you expecting this year?

sphere of Rotterdam.

This edition, we will again aim to make the

What are the benefits of attending

best use of all available space in Rotterdam

Europort as an exhibitor?

Ahoy. That means we can expect more than 1,000 exhibiting companies and approxi-

Europort belongs to the world’s largest

mately 25.000 professional visitors. Looking

maritime exhibitions and, as such, attracts

at the current status of the floor plan, we

a highly focused international audience

are well on our way to achieving this goal!

of industry professionals, including

Inside marine 33

EVENT PREVIEW Director Europort Raymond Siliakus answered questions for Inside Marine

shipbuilders, shipowners, equipment manu-

seminars and workshops, attendees can

facturers, suppliers and service providers.

exchange knowledge, share experiences

This focused environment ensures that

and discuss challenges and solutions.

companies can engage with relevant

This knowledge exchange enables com-

stakeholders and potential customers.

panies to gain valuable insights into

It allows maritime companies to showcase

emerging trends, best practices and inno-

their products, solutions and expertise to

vative approaches, helping them tackle

an international audience.

industry challenges more effectively.

Furthermore, events like Europort offer

Can you offer any predictions about new

a comprehensive overview of the current

technology and developments for the

state and future direction of the maritime

maritime industry among the companies

industry. Through keynote speeches, panel

exhibiting this year?

discussions and presentations, companies and visitors gain insights into market trends,

Digitalisation will have a growing impact

regulatory developments and emerging

in all aspects of shipping and vessel tech-

challenges. This knowledge equips compa-

nology. Ongoing digital innovations will help

nies with the necessary information to

to counter major industry challenges in the

adapt their strategies, identify potential

field of energy efficiency, reducing the

risks and seize opportunities in a rapidly

carbon footprint, cyber security and

evolving industry landscape.

smart use of scarce human resources – especially with the disruptive revolution

What part of Europort are you personally

of Artificial Intelligence, of which I believe

looking forward to the most?

we have only seen the beginning.

The beauty of exhibitions in general is that In what ways do events like Europort

they truly connect people and cultures from

help companies overcome challenges in

all over the world. In a world that becomes

the maritime industry?

more and more divided and polarised, exhibitions play a fundamental role in literally

Europort brings together industry profes-

bringing people together.

sionals, experts and thought leaders from

Exhibitions focus on opportunities

around the world. Through conferences,

and cooperation, on mutual ambitions,

34 Inside marine

shared values, and synergy. This certainly applies to Europort where industry peers from more than 90 countries are expected to get together to connect, cooperate and innovate.

What can visitors expect from this year’s conference programme?

We have defined four key topics to lead the Europort 2023 agenda: Energy Transition, Digitalisation, Ship Finance and Human Capital. These themes will be deeply explored in the exhibition and during the many conferences, innovation pitches and networking events. Europort offers an exceptionally in-depth programme in close cooperation with national and international industry partners, innovators and pioneers. And it will be fun too, with plenty of occasions to make the trip enjoyable and memorable.

Is there anything not covered so far that you would like to share with our readers?

Yes: visitors should make sure they get inspired by young entrepreneurs and their visions. It is crucial that everyone visits the Rising Stars Pavilion, where a selection of 21 promising start-ups will showcase the newest insights.

n Inside marine 35

iM seven seas, five oceans, one voice

SHIP OPERATORS, OWNERS & MANAGERS united overseas group

crossworld marine services

teh-hu cargocean management eastern car liner americas

conti-lines

cool carriers

miklagard

norstar group

canfornav

cetus maritime

isle of man steam packet company

UNITED OVERSEAS GROUP LTD

38 Inside marine

I PROFILE

United Overseas Group Ltd provides transportation services for refined petroleum products, chemicals and crude oil.

Based in Athens, the company owns and operates a fleet of 21 product and chemical tankers. Antonios Vrondissis, Managing Director, told Hannah Barnett more about the diversity of the company’s ventures. ith a large fleet of tankers

W

The value of experience

following a worldwide

UOG was established in November 2020.

trading pattern, United

In March 2021, the company completed

Overseas Management (UOG) main-

a reverse merger with United Arab

tains the highest standards in order

Chemical Carriers Limited Dubai, resulting

to uphold its strong presence in the

in UOG controlling UACC and its fleet.

marine market.

It may be a relatively new company,

“The whole fleet provides valued

but UOG benefits from the expertise of

services to customers by focusing on

its principals, industry veterans Peter

safeguarding human life, protecting

Georgiopoulos and Leonidas Vrondissis.

the environment, promoting safety

Their combined experience means the

and transparently setting quality

company is in safe hands.

and energy objectives,” Managing

“Peter and Leo are veterans in the ship-

Director Antonios Vrondissis said.

ping industry,” said Mr Vrondissis. “They

Nine of UOG’s 21 vessels are pure

have completed multiple transactions, in

chemical carriers with coated cargo

both the private and public markets, with

tanks and the capacity to load

a combined value of over $20 billion.

and carry water-white standard

“Peter Georgiopoulos founded, ran and

chemical cargoes. The company

chaired some of the most successful

also commercially manages a fleet

shipping companies in the world including

of four long-range oil tankers and

General Maritime Corporation and Genco

eight medium-range oil and chem-

Shipping and Trading Ltd. General

ical tankers.

Maritime’s successor company Gener8

Inside marine 39

40 Inside marine

UNITED OVERSEAS GROUP LTD

I PROFILE

merged with Euronav in 2018, creating the

Based in Athens and Dubai, the new venture

largest public tanker company in the

will charter-in/out dry bulk vessels, enter

world. This experience guides UOG’s

into contracts of affreightment and utilise

strategy and commitment towards excel-

hedging solutions, including forward freight

lence. So, while we may be private, we’re

agreements and bunker hedging. UOG has

run like a listed company, and are very

also incorporated a dry-bulk trading com-

transparent. I believe this sets us apart.”

pany, focusing on the larger vessel sizes

The UOG fleet is technically and com-

and chartering cargoes. The company

mercially managed by United Overseas

intends to continue to expand this segment

Management Hellas (UOM Hellas), an affili-

of the business going forward.

ated company of UOG. The ships are then outsourced to various technical man-

Innovative equipment

agers, including 16 vessels technically

In addition to its shipping activities, UOG’s

managed by renowned ship management

principals have also invested in maritime

company Synergy Marine Group. The

technology SeaARCTOS, which gathers

chemical tanker fleet is on a long-term

and develops real-time intelligence to

charter to a subsidiary of Aramco and the

enable meaningful emissions monitoring.

product tankers largely operate in the

The technology is designed to help com-

spot market or under short-term charter.

panies report emissions data in order to fulfil

UOG recently established United Overseas Trading LLC, a dry bulk operating platform.

42 Inside marine

regulatory obligations and counter climate change. SeaARCTOS was developed to

tunities, real savings in terms of port turnarounds, efficiencies in operation, monitor the 97% of a vessel’s emissions

preferential treatment, beneficial rates

caused by the main engine; mostly in deep,

and consequently, active management

international waters, out of sight of any

of climate change.

enforcement agency.

The ARCTOS-1 device is a revolutionary

“SeaARCTOS enables the shipping industry to be both fiscally and environmentally

sensor attached to the top of a vessel’s

responsible,” said Mr Vrondissis.

exhaust stack which independently

“In fact, studies have shown that a clear

monitors carbon dioxide, methane and

and defined ESG strategy generates

sulphur dioxide levels.

long-term financial opportunities for

“The significance of SeaARCTOS and

sustainable growth and success.”

ARCTOS-1 goes beyond UOG’s interests,” Mr Vrondissis explained. “We believe

High standards

that compliance leads to commercial

Like any successful company, upholding

improvements and that real measure-

the highest standards remains vital for

ment equals real management.”

UOG. An incorporated management

ARCTOS-1’s accurate, real-time analysis enables ship owners, managers, charterers, financiers and others to monitor at any time, from any place, their vessel emissions.

SeaARCTOS enables an inexpensive and straightforward way to reduce global emissions and is easy to install and maintain. The resulting transparency serves as a beacon of change to the market, which in turn results in greater business oppor-

Inside marine 43

UNITED OVERSEAS GROUP LTD

I PROFILE

system for the whole fleet maintains

adding younger and more environmen-

ISO 9001 quality management, ISO 14001

tally friendly vessels.

environmental management, ISO 45001

UOG works closely with its vendors,

occupational health and safety and ISM

customers and other stakeholders. All

code requirements.

aspects of the operation are based on the

“The company has first-class fleet

company’s five guiding principles. These

managers,” Mr Vrondissis said. “They all share a vision of integrity, safety and transparency, in strict compliance with regulations, to minimise the environmental footprint of our vessels.”

United Overseas Group’s five guiding principles:

The company uses integrated models for emission compliance with the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and has set a strategy to improve its performance in these categories. Additionally, UOG has a target to renew its fleet gradually over forthcoming years,

44 Inside marine

Responsibility Reliability Honesty Excellence Ownership and Commitment

ensure that UOG knows and accepts the

time charters for two of them whilst

consequences of its decisions.

trading one in the spot market.

“The five guiding principles show that

With so much going on at UOG, for

we strive to provide a safe, timely

Mr Vrondissis, there is no better company

delivery of goods at the highest level of

or industry to be part of.

quality achievable,” Mr Vrondissis said.

“My family has four generations in

“We expect, and value, open communica-

shipping,” he concluded. “It runs in our

tion and integrity, whilst continually

blood. My father was a captain, as were

pursuing excellence through hard work

my two grandfathers. My daughter works

and self-improvement.”

in chartering in Athens too. Shipping has

The company is always looking for new

something for everybody: it provides

investment opportunities, analysing

opportunities in multiple disciplines like

trends and exploring opportunities. On

HR, insurance, law. Personally, I get a lot

the asset-owning side, it recently raised

of satisfaction from creating a system

equity in the Norwegian KS market for the

that not only works, but is efficient, safe

purchase of three second-hand product

and compliant. I can’t imagine doing

tankers; locking-in attractive, long-term,

anything else.”

n Inside marine 45

CROSSWORLD MARINE SERVICES

I PROFILE

Crossworld Marine Services is a first-class provider of reliable crew and ship management. With a special anniversary approaching, Captain Levy Capayas, President of Crossworld, reflected over the past two decades and gave insight into where the company is headed next. Report by Imogen Ward.

46 Inside marine

W

ith a stellar reputation for award-

that has helped us gain a significant

winning crew management,

market lead.”

Crossworld Marine Services is

With roots dating back to the 1980s,

well-established in Asia, Europe and the

Crossworld, as is it is known today,

Middle East. Manila, Philippines, has been

manages a fleet of more than 380 vessels.

home to the company’s main recruitment

Onboard those ships are highly qualified

and operations centre since it was first

crews drawn from 5,800 seafarers, who

established in 2004. Now, with its 20th

ensure the ships are maintained and run

anniversary around the corner, Crossworld

smoothly. From bulk carriers to oil tankers

is geared to continue its journey of

Crossworld provides a fully comprehen-

improvement and progression.

sive service based upon three main

“Next year marks 20 years since we brought Crossworld to Manila,” Captain

focuses: principle, seafarers and families, and Crossworld human resources.

Levy Capayas, President of Crossworld, said. “The company developed from

Overcoming challenges

Captain Leonidas Varias’ background in

As an experienced crew management

crew management: since then, we have

company, Crossworld understands what

expanded into other markets including

it takes to create the perfect environment

Ukraine and Indonesia. We also have

for successful crew operation.

offices in Limassol, Cyprus, and Dubai,

“First and foremost, to provide excep-

UAE, which are hotbeds for shipping,

tional services a company needs to have

commercial and financial opportunities.

an understanding of the industry’s needs

“At Crossworld, we are constantly improving, and it’s a continuous effort

and be incredibly responsive to those needs,” said Captain Capayas. “The industry

Inside marine 47

48 Inside marine

CROSSWORLD MARINE SERVICES

I PROFILE

The three key focuses: • The principal focus ensures a top quality and tailor-made service, including regular crew updates and solid IT support.

• The seafarers and families element encourages development and wellbeing in seafarers and their significant others.

• The human resources focus incorporates training

dynamics are constantly shifting as both

pany is also partnered with several

company and crew mindsets adjust, and

training centres, including UMTC,

we can continuously and quickly adapt to

Philcamsat, Gigamare and Idess.

these changes to provide the high-quality service that our clients require.

“On top of that, we also go beyond crewing

“Our corporation model is targeted towards solving industry challenges, and we already had the resources in place to

to provide valuable consultancy recom-

make a difference,” Captain Capayas said.

mendations for technical operations and

“We have been working with several top

handling to allow optimal ship performance.”

academies, including the Philippine

One challenge that the company has had

Merchant Marine Academy, to help solve

to adapt to was amplified by the recent

the issue of crew shortages by developing

pandemic. According to Captain Capayas,

a sustainable pipeline of crew for our clients’

the industry has witnessed an increasing

pools. We have also recently opened

shortage of qualified crew members. As a

programmes for several special positions,

crew operator, Crossworld felt it was in the

including Electro-Technical Officers, and

perfect position to help solve this problem

currently we train around 200 cadets

utilising its own corporation model and

annually in an attempt to close the gaps.

resources to do so.

“These programmes have not only helped

From its in-house accredited training

bridge the seafarer need gap but have also

facility, the company has been providing

generated substantial monetary savings

continuous training and development for

for clients. We have also utilised them to

its crews, including Port State Control

offer early development and qualifications

Training, Cyber Security Awareness and Safety Officer Training. The com-

50 Inside marine

for crews, in response to the evolving requirements of the industry.”

With a strong commitment to the health

mental wellbeing. The group also offers the

and safety of its crews, the company

wives of seafarers an excellent opportunity

also has a HSQE plan in place. Through

to meet people who are in a similar situa-

this, it endeavours to provide a safe

tion, actively creating a supportive network.

and healthy workplace environment

“We know for a fact that when sea-

for everyone involved.

farers are out at sea, they think about their families a lot,” Captain Capayas said:

Supporting a community

“so, we wanted to make sure that once

For Crossworld, this is more than just a

they are onboard, they don’t have to worry

business. The company fully appreciates

so much about who’s going to take care

that crewing means long-periods away

of those at home. We run activities for

from home, which affects both the crew

the families, and really strive to create

members and their families. To try and ease

an environment where everyone feels

the difficulties of the separation period,

a part of the same unit.”

Crossworld provides support for those at

Having ensured the wellbeing of crew

home. The company has set up a club for

and family members, the company also

the wives of seafarers. At the most recent

plans to implement crucial schemes for

Seafarers Day, club members were taken

the support of its office staff as well. This

on a spa day to encourage relaxation and

includes hot-desking (which will also have

Inside marine 51

CROSSWORLD MARINE SERVICES

I PROFILE

a positive impact on carbon emissions reduction) and provisions for healthy meals; providing more choice that not only tastes good, but does good too.

Laying firm foundations As an extension of this, in 2015, the company also established its own charity foundation from a desire to help those in need. The foundation consists of three divisions: Hopecross, that supports children with cancer; Helpcross, that aids those affected by natural disaster and, finally, Achievecross, that assists students from

Captain Levy Capayas, President of Crossworld

poor economic backgrounds.

Some of the amazing work accomplished by the foundation includes offering schol-

the local community,” Captain Capayas

arships to university students, donating

said. “Through our foundation, we are

school equipment and clothing to students,

currently supporting between 20 and

and raising money for hospitals.

30 orphans, providing them with school

“Whenever there’s an opportunity to do so, we get out of the office and support

54 Inside marine

materials, tuition fees and everything they need to really thrive.”

Going forward, the company intends

part of this, we are implementing

to continue its work within the wider com-

a major digitalisation of the company

munity, whilst also maintaining its status

from the fourth quarter of 2023.

as a leading crew operator.

“I have no doubt that we can achieve

“We want to remain at the top of the

this, with such a supportive manage-

crewing industry, with a focus on quality

ment backing us. Their encouragement

over expansion,” said Captain Capayas.

shines through everyone that works

“We will continue to provide and manage

here as well. The team is full of hard-

solid and sustainable crew pools for our

working and happy individuals whose

clients. Just as vessels and corporations

smiles never seem to waver,” Captain

are viewed as one, we feel it is important

Capayas concluded. “Ultimately, man-

that we are seen as both a crewing partner

agement and colleagues here at

and a shipping partner. Our quest for

Crossworld are all working together

quality incorporates us being a top-quality

towards one common goal, and that is

ship operations partner as well – even if

to serve our clients, our seafarers and

our scope is crew management. As

their families.”

n

Inside marine 55

TEH-HU CARGOCEAN MANAGEMENT

I PROFILE

After almost 75 years of operations, Hong Kong-based shipowner Teh-Hu Cargocean Management has undergone a leadership transition. CEO Patrick Lo and COO Shrah Ng explained more, in an exclusive interview with Inside Marine.

Report by Imogen Ward.

W

ith strong family values, Teh-Hu Cargocean Management (TCM) has been developed by three

generations. Now with the third generation at the forefront of the business, the company is developing a new vision.

“TCM has always been a very traditional business,” said CEO Patrick Lo: “After we joined the company, we sought to implement modernisation. This hasn’t been achieved in a drastic way, but every year we add something new.”

TCM was established in 1974 by Chung Kia Liu, Chi Kong Lo and Tchung Year Wu, following a merger of two companies.

Its predecessor, Teh-Hu Steamship, was founded even earlier in 1948. Initially operating with a fleet of small bulk carriers, the company went on to acquire Handysize, Panamax and Capesize vessels before

56 Inside marine

choosing to focus its efforts on the Capesize

The third generation

market. Now, the company is well positioned

Both Mr Lo and Ms Ng have a long-standing

with a fleet of seven Capesize ships.

presence at TCM and have been able to

“We added two vessels in the past few

utilise this alongside their previous experi-

years, including a newbuilding,” COO Shrah

ence to ensure a smooth transition from one

Ng said. “We then sold a vessel in 2021, called

generation to the next.

Prosperous – taking our total fleet figure to seven.”

Initially joining TCM in 2011, Mr Lo has held the position of CEO ever since. He also possesses 18 years prior experience within the finance industry, as a China fund manager at Fidelity Investment. This experience afforded a greater understanding of the Chinese market; in particular the economic developments. With 70% of the demand for Capesize coming from China, this knowledge is crucial for TCM.

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TEH-HU CARGOCEAN MANAGEMENT

I PROFILE

before we became involved day-to-day. Our Mr Lo’s thoughts on the industry:

parents would always bring us to business

“Capesize is a very volatile business, and to be successful there are two very important things to consider: the timing of decisions – especially when it comes to buying and selling – and balance sheet management are both crucial. The right balance sheets make it easier to pursue new investments.”

dinners, and that gave us an opportunity to meet with partners and build that relationship early on. This continued once I joined the company as well.”

With 20 years’ experience at TCM, and prior experience in investment banking, Ms Ng possessed the perfect qualifications to head the company’s operations.

“My previous experience as a portfolio

Partnered with a Bachelor of Science

manager helped sharpen my investment

in Management and eight years of

and risk management skills,” Mr Lo said.

experience working in TCM’s operations

“That’s based on a lot of input, including

department, Ms Ng confidently took on

economic data and varying sources of

the position of COO in 2011.

information. At TCM, we rely on data, and

“During my time working in the finance

I try to draw from my previous experience

industry, I oversaw a lot of legal documents

as much as possible.

for public offerings,” said Ms Ng: “This really

“Even before that, because myself and

helped for my transition to TCM, because

Ms Ng grew up with the company, we were

the skills I learned were transferable to the

exposed to the company and the people

shipping industry.”

60 Inside marine

Both Mr Lo and Ms Ng have vast experi-

putting in the resources to upgrade these

ence working side-by-side and believe this

systems. This is really important because

has helped ensure a smooth transition to

safety is always on top of our agenda,

the next generation.

and having that instantaneous feedback enables us not only react quickly, but also

A new vision

ensures we can take a more proactive

As TCM moves forward with its plans for

approach as well.”

modernisation, the company is taking its time to ensure it is successful.

“We believe that the biggest challenge

Besides modernising the vessel’s systems, TCM was also an early mover in scrubber technology. Back in 2018, the company

in evolving from a traditional owner into a more modernised company, is time,” Mr Lo said. “We understand that this evolution cannot be done overnight, and because of that we try not to make any drastic changes.”

The company has been working with Anglo-Eastern (the company in charge of TCM’s crew and technical management) to upgrade the IT infrastructure and systems aboard its vessels. This will allow for more secured, efficient and instantaneous connection between vessel and shore.

“We want to have remote access to – as well as instant feedback from – the vessel,” Ms Ng said. “So we have been

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TEH-HU CARGOCEAN MANAGEMENT

I PROFILE

started working closely with ContiOcean

implementing modernisation is with a mix

to retrofit/install scrubbers on its existing

of long-standing professionals and new

vessels and newbuilding. The early mover

faces. A lot of the company’s workforce

advantage allowed TCM to enjoy a rather

has worked for TCM for a long time. With

short payback period.

that comes knowledge and experience.

Another way in which the company is

However; as more workers are nearing

ensuring it can overcome the challenge of

retirement, TCM is looking to bring in more of the younger generation.

Moving forward TCM firmly believes that the shipping industry is heading for a period of vast change – one that will affect everyone. According to Mr Lo there will be four big shifts which the industry will have to adapt to. These relate to inflation, growth and industry-wide goals.

“The market is evolving all the time, and I expect these dynamic shifts to occur over the next five to ten years,” Mr Lo explained.

“These will not only impact the Capesize market but also the shipping business more generally. Firstly, the era of low interest

64 Inside marine

rates has come to an end. We are now entering a phase of medium to high inflation. As a knock-on effect, the growth of China’s economy will begin to slow down, creating a low-growth situation.”

“The next factor is globalisation: previously the big players in the industry have been focused on gaining global status, and now, I believe we are entering a phase of deglobalisation. The changes to supply chains had a big impact on this. Finally, decarbonisation will play a huge factor in shipping – mainly from the supply side.

Obviously, we do not have access to a crystal ball that will show us how each of

“We work within a very dynamic industry,”

these factors will evolve, but as an industry

Ms Ng concluded. “Over the past few years

we need to gain a clear understanding of

(especially during the COVID period), ship-

each one and its potential impact.”

ping has proven its importance within

As a company, TCM was set up to work

global trade. Being the third generation

in cycles, so it already understands these

here at TCM, we have a responsibility

shifts and is perfectly positioned to correctly

to continue the company’s legacy, and be

adapt to each shift as it comes.

a big player in the future of global trade.” n

Inside marine 65

MIKLAGARD

I PROFILE

Miklagard S Ship Management is a versatile and proactive vessel operator, covering all the bases with its expertise in technical, crew and operational management. It was first established in 2019, following a crucial agreement with RFOcean. Managing Director and partner of Miklagard Tayfun Bozoglu and Managing Director of RFOcean & Partner in Miklagard Frederik Rye-Florentz discussed the company’s journey so far, in an exclusive interview with Inside Marine. Report by Imogen Ward.

F

or Miklagard S Ship Management it

A long-standing history

was not a case of right place right

Miklagard’s history dates all

time, but rather the right people

the way back to the ‘80s, when

and a plethora of experience. Combining

ŞENER Group owned and operated

ŞENER Ship Management’s 25-year legacy

chemical tankers. Over the years,

in chemical tanker management and

ship construction was also added

RFOcean’s expertise in ship investment

to its growing list of capabilities.

and commercial management, the two

“I first started working at ŞENER

made a perfect match.

“I first met Tayfun back in 2018,” Managing

in 1995, so I really witnessed the company’s growth and

Director of RFOcean & Partner in Miklagard

progression,” said

Frederik Rye-Florentz said. “At the time,

Managing Director of and

RFOcean was in the process of buying

partner Miklagard Tayfun

some ships which Tayfun was managing.

Bozoglu. “Up until 2010, the

We were also looking for a technical man-

company had around 13

agement platform that had everything we

chemical tankers that it

didn’t. That’s really where Miklagard

had constructed and

evolved from.”

owned. It was offering these

66 Inside marine

vessels out for long-term charter with some

is paramount. This sets the foundation of

major players, including BP, Shell and Total.

our decision-making process, ensuring that

“In 2019, ŞENER sold its last ships to RFOcean, and the two companies came to an agreement, which resulted in myself and my team transferring with the ship.”

safety and environmental conservation guide our every action.

“This approach not only fosters a positive work environment, but also facilitates

The team brought with it over 25 years’

a seamless integration of new team

worth of experience and a stellar safety

members – in office and offshore – and

management system. Since its establish-

the wellbeing of our staff is crucial.”

ment, Miklagard has focused on its mission to service tanker operators with a focus

Continuing to grow

on integrity, passion, safety and marine

Currently, Miklagard manages six chemical

environment preservation.

tankers and two handysize bulkers, but

“No commercial benefit should ever

this figure is expected to grow swiftly. In

compromise safety or environmental safe-

collaboration with RFOcean, who recently

guarding,” Mr Bozoglu said. “Our goal of

ordered four newbuild 6,600 dwt methanol-

achieving zero accidents and zero pollution

ready stainless-steel tankers from a Chinese

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MIKLAGARD

I PROFILE

shipyard, Miklagard utilised its expertise to

panies have been working hard to address

enhance the project.

the upcoming regulatory changes, in order

“This really was our groundbreaking new build order,” said Mr Rye-Florentz. “The

to retain their place at the forefront of innovation and development.

ships are methanol-ready and also rely on

“We went through all the fuels, and we

diesel-electric propulsion. The process was

landed on methanol,” Mr Rye-Florentz

quite long, and we worked closely with

said. “It suited our needs best. Obviously,

Miklagard to develop the necessary speci-

the cost and supply of bio-methanol is

fications. I signed the contracts for these

still an issue – one that I don’t think will

vessels in June this year, and that was

be solved overnight – but we are ready to

really the beginning of a new trajectory for

tackle these issues head-on.

Miklagard. We were really keen to apply the

“When it comes to newbuilds, flexibility

team’s expertise and capabilities to this

is key. You can’t be tied down to just one

project, especially as half the team come

fuel-type, and that’s really a conclusion

from the Turkish shipbuilding industry. When

garnered by the whole team at Miklagard.

it comes to shipbuilding, there is an abun-

Our hybrids give us a lot of flexibility.”

dance of experience at Miklagard.”

This investment is crucial for both compa-

Miklagard is also managing two 19,000dwt intermediate chemical

nies as they seek to align with the industry’s

tankers that RFOcean acquired earlier

net zero emissions targets. The two com-

this year.

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A top priority

crew welfare. On top of this, we ensure

The company could not provide its

their accommodation has everything

world-class service without the help of its

they need, including Wi-Fi for interaction

hardworking crew. According to Mr Bozoglu,

with those at home. We have recently

that is why Miklagard is also investing in its

invested in Starlink to improve the crew’s

crews: “We provide regular training sessions

communication experience.”

for our staff – both onshore and offshore,

This commitment to crew welfare is

and always ensure they are up to date

clear from the company’s retention rate.

with all sector developments, rules and

Currently sitting at an impressive 95%,

safety regulations.

the company prides itself on cultivating

“We also invite external professionals to run sessions which help to improve

a positive working environment and providing clients with the highest quality of

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MIKLAGARD

I PROFILE

service. Career progression is also an important element of this, and several of the company’s sea masters began their career as sea cadets on its vessels!

Keen to uphold its dedication to its crews, Miklagard also has its own health and safety management system.

“We are committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of our crew members, staff, contracted personnel and everyone directly and indirectly associated with our business, our offices and our ships,” Mr Bozoglu said. “This system promotes a culture of safety across every phase of our operations and encompasses a range of procedures and operational instructions that help to monitor and uphold safety at sea.

“Our system is reviewed periodically in accordance with the guidance outlined by the Tanker Management and Self-Assessment programme, enabling

72 Inside marine

us to continuously refine and enhance

and passion, then that’s going to get us

the effectiveness of these procedures.”

a long way.”

According to Mr Rye-Florentz,

As it looks into the future, Miklagard intends

Miklagard’s personal approach really

to continue nurturing that passion, to pro-

makes a difference in the eyes of its cus-

vide its customers with the very best service

tomers: “Miklagard manages the ships

possible. “We really aim to be leaders in ship

like they own them. There is a great deal

management; prioritising quality of service,

of passion within everyone that works for

lasting client partnerships and safety every

the company, and that’s key. At the end

time,” Mr Bozoglu concluded. “We will con-

of the day, we are providing a service

tinue to expand our fleet and seize emerging

that needs to run as smoothly as pos-

opportunities where possible to leave our

sible, and if there is good communication

mark on the maritime industry.”

n

Inside marine 73

CANFORNAV

I PROFILE

being one of the leading interna-

C

tional dry bulk carriers in the

industry. Over the years, Canfornav steadily

St. Lawrence and Great Lakes

expanded by chartering larger ships and

region. Canfornav is one of the

sailing onto the global market. Cargoes

world’s larger handysize vessel

also evolved as Canfornav handled steel,

The Canadian Forest Navigation Group (Canfornav) has grown into

owners and operators in the global

anadian Forest Navigation Co. Ltd. (Canfornav) was established in Montréal in 1976 as a ship operator,

initially serving the Canadian forest

raw materials, and grain products.

Today, Canfornav carries approximately

maritime transportation market.

eight million tonnes of cargo such as grain,

Report by Phil Nicholls.

agricultural products, fertilizers, steel, con-

74 Inside marine

centrates, and much more. The Canfornav

A handy fleet

fleet performs over 360 voyages annually,

The current Canfornav fleet of over 40

providing an integral service to its customers

vessels is a mix of handysize and laker

and the global trade network.

ships. However, to keep pace with the

The fleet focuses on the Atlantic handysize market, linking the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence to the world. Canfornav

market growth, Canfornav has a robust fleet expansion program.

Over the course of 2023, Canfornav were

visits more than 760 ports in 75 countries

pleased to announce two new handysize

around the globe.

vessels joining the company. M/V Merganser

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CANFORNAV

78 Inside marine

I PROFILE

Jensen said. “I am talking about roughly 20 customers who we service regularly, which has a capacity of 39,700DWT and was

means we are generally carrying fertiliser,

completed by the Shin Kurushima yard in

steel, and wood pellets. We stick with this

2023. Also built in the same year was the

core business.”

slightly smaller M/V Pochard, at 37,780DWT, from Imabari Shipbuilding. Yet, the company

Committed to sustainability

is not stopping there, with more Japanese

The company is focused on innovation,

bulk carriers scheduled for 2024.

and provides a dependable, reliable,

It is the size of the Canfornav operations

and sustainable service to customers.

which sets the company apart from much

Canfornav is actively engaged and

of the competition. The company owns 70%

involved in environmental initiatives to

of its fleet, with the remaining 30% on such

foster a greener maritime community.

long-term charters that Canfornav effectively performs like a ship owner.

The fleet also has extensive experience of ice transits. Almost 75% of the Canfornav fleet are ice class vessels, which gives the company great operational flexibility.

As a company with over 45 years’ experience in the shipping industry, Canfornav enjoys long-term relationships with suppliers and clients. “We have a core of repeat customers,” President & CEO Knud

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CANFORNAV

I PROFILE

As part of this program of delivering

Alongside providing all employees with

sustainable shipping, the Canfornav fleet

appropriate training, the company is also

now benefits from electronic flow meters.

committed to providing all vessels with the

These provide the management team with

necessary personal protective equipment

exact consumption figures for the fleet.

to ensure the safety of all its seafarers.

Vessels also benefit from propeller bosses

Closer to home, Canfornav also plays an

to optimise performance. The company

important role supporting charities within

is also conducting a computational fluids

the Montréal area, including the Montréal

study to further improve fuel efficiency.

Children’s Hospital.

Another important topic is ballast water treatment systems. This is especially rele-

Sailing troubled waters

vant to Canfornav as it operates in the

The volatile global environment con-

Great Lakes, where water quality is a big

tinues to present multiple challenges

issue. The fleet has adopted a UV water

to the shipping industry. Mr. Jensen

treatment system, which works well in

highlighted the impact of the Ukraine

freshwater conditions.

conflict and the subsequent sanctions limiting shipping in both the Baltic and

Corporate responsibility The core philosophy of Canfornav is evident

Black Seas.

However, the lingering consequences

in the company’s strict code of ethics and

of the pandemic are fading globally.

its pride in being a very diverse and equal

The extended lockdowns which

opportunity employer.

impacted China have passed, so the

The health and safety of all Canfornav’s workers is a key concern for the company.

82 Inside marine

number of opportunities for recovery are steadily growing.

With a proactive management team eager to face these evolving challenges, Canfornav remains optimistic for the longterm future. Both the strength of the US dollar and the American appetite for imports bode well for a company operating on the Great Lakes. Canfornav is also on track for future fleet expansion sourced from yards in Japan.

The dedication and commitment of the Canfornav seafarers and office staff ashore, continues to give the company the consistency and reliability to make quick decisions.

As the growing Canfornav sails strongly into the future, the team is ready to provide flexible solutions to its customers.

n Inside marine 83

EASTERN CAR LINER AMERICAS

I PROFILE

Eastern Car Liner, Ltd. (ECL) was established in May 1977 to provide transportation services for RoRo and breakbulk cargo to Southeast Asia. The company now operates more than 50 services a month from Japan to other Asia-Pacific countries and the intra-southeast region, with both breakbulk and RoRo services. Bill Christ, Executive VP and COO of ECL Americas, Inc. explained more to Hannah Barnett.

he Covid years brought challenges

T

share the customer’s dream and play

across the shipping industry and

a helping hand in achieving their goals

beyond. For ECL, steep price hikes

of moving their cargo and products.”

of cargo over to its services, and the

A hive of activity

company had to adapt accordingly.

ECL operates multiple transportation

Luckily, being adaptable is what ECL does:

services out of Japan, South Korea, and

“It’s an attitude that the whole company

China going southbound to the Philippines,

and CEO, Shigeru Nagate, have,” Executive

Indonesia, and Malaysia. It runs a regular

VP and COO of the North American division

RoRo service to Western Australia and the

Bill Christ, explained. “We pride ourselves

Middle East; Singapore is therefore a major

in taking care of whatever the customer

hub for the company.

in the container sector meant an influx

needs and adjusting where necessary.

One of the company philosophies is to

84 Inside marine

The Intra Asia service is one ECL’s strongest areas, providing liner services

with 13,000 DWT multipurpose vessels up

minor ports in Asia. ECL has also been

to 150-ton crane capacity. The company

making some spot voyages to Europe

also provides breakbulk ocean liner ser-

using its North America vessels.

vices to and from Asia and North America and is also a licensed and bonded truck brokerage, specializing in the movement of heavy and oversized cargo throughout mainland USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The company has two vessel operating subsidiaries: Network Cross Trade Ltd (NEXT) based in China and EAL Everett Asia Line Pte, Ltd (EAL) based in Singapore – the latter operating in the Bay of Bengal, India, and also provides feeder service from Singapore to some of the

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EASTERN CAR LINER AMERICAS

I PROFILE

“At any given time, the different group

America regularly has three ships in service.

divisions will bring in spot vessels to fill out

But we’ve got one more coming in over

additional needs,” Mr Christ explained. “For

the next few months to fill out additional

example, the trans-Pacific route in North

capacity needs for our customers, and so we can perform better.”

This hub of activity is complemented by its 164 staff and net sales last year exceeding US$ 632 million.

The winds of change As both a RoRo and conventional breakbulk carrier, ECL prides itself on being a niche transporter, providing tailored services and continuing to adapt to the sector’s changing needs. The company has recently launched four new build Coral-class 14,000 DWT multipurpose ships, with a fifth set for early 2024.

“What I’m really excited about for the North America service is that we have plans to build a 17,000 DWT multipurpose ship with two times 250-ton crane capacity,

88 Inside marine

combinable to 500 tons,” said Mr Christ.

routes. So we’re going to try to serve our

“That probably won’t come out until mid

clients better there with more sailing

2025 or early 2026. But it’s going to give

frequencies and faster times as that

us not only a slightly larger ship, but

market changes.”

increased lift capacity, which will allow us to take on a lot of other cargo.”

One trend the company has had to respond to is the increased movement of

The company has also responded to an increase in construction machinery cargo to North America over the last few years.

Mr Christ expects the trend to continue.

electric vehicles across countries and con-

“It is primarily new machinery, but a lot is

tinents. Clearly, as EV production increases,

used too,” he explained. “Excavators, dump

so too does transportation of them.

trucks, mobile cranes all coming inbound to

“This trend is particularly coming out of

North America, with every vessel quite full.

China,” said Mr Christ. “And what is prob-

I think traditionally this cargo has been with

ably going to happen in the coming years

other RoRo carriers, but the volume has

is a lot more of that production is going to

been growing for all the manufacturers and

shift to other third country areas. We think

importers and extra capacity is needed, so

that we can be useful in those shorter

we’ve adjusted to take on a lot more.”

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EASTERN CAR LINER AMERICAS

I PROFILE

The company operates a marine technical department with 20 port captains based in Tokyo, and more at various key overseas subsidiary offices. For every voyage port call, the port captains will issue detailed loading or discharging instructions.

“Obviously, the goal is to keep damage to the absolute minimum,” Mr Christ said. “when it does occur, we issue advisory memos to all stations pointing out what occurred and how to correct it. I know that our primary stevedore here in North America, SSA, has told us that they wish all carriers would give the same detailed instructions and attention to cargo that we do.

“And something that I’ve noticed is that

Strong partnerships

very little, if any, damage occurs with

Amidst this flux, ECL stands out with its

the increased amount of construction

exemplary customer service. “I think it’s

machinery and excavators that we’ve

an attitude we have – that we are in part-

been bringing in. I see other carriers, with

nership with the customer,” as Mr Christ

a lot of heavy machinery being loaded

put it.

and unloaded, where things do happen.

90 Inside marine

“But we keep it to a minimum, thanks to

been in charge of ECL Americas for 15 years

that attention to operational control.”

now and I had 21 years prior to that as

True to its roots, all areas of the company

a project freight forwarder. Whether it’s

operate a Japanese style of business which

on ships, trucks, or working with other

prizes long term, close relationships with

carriers, handling cargo is in my blood.” n

customers and suppliers.

“Being part of a customer’s supply chain and operations should be like being an extension of the customer,” Mr Christ explained. “We take pride handling their cargo. And I see the same thing in terms of the vendors and stevedores we work with: we keep them close and make sure to communicate clearly. We treat our stevedores as we treat our customers, and in turn we want them to give our cargo the same care.”

Mr Christ extends the same passionate philosophy to his own work. This is not a job he is likely to get bored of anytime soon.

“I have four close siblings and they’re all either retired or soon to be,” he concluded.

“I’m of that age too, but I still drive to work every morning excited for the challenges of the day ahead – without even considering retirement or slowing down. I’ve

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CONTI-LINES

I PROFILE

Conti-Lines is a family-run company with a long-standing tradition of ship owning and operating. With a speciality in offering maritime transportation services using a diversified fleet of handysize to ultramax dry bulk vessels, the company offers clients a first-class service. Director Gregory Brion explained more to Hannah Barnett.

C

onti-Lines has always been

Director, said. “We operate a vast network:

client-orientated. Operating

besides our Antwerp headquarters, we have

out of five worldwide offices,

offices in London, Istanbul, Casablanca,

with an Antwerp HQ and staff of over 50

Dubai and Hong Kong. Plans are on the table

employees, the company provides flexi-

to also open an office in Senegal.

bility to customers worldwide.

“This network allows us to quickly

“We are very close to our clients and spare

respond to our customers’ request and

no effort to meet their needs,” Gregory Brion,

demands, which is key to us! An absolute

92 Inside marine

asset is our own fleet of vessels – it is our firm intention to further expand the fleet in order to supply an even better service.

A company overview Conti-Lines works closely with clients to provide the logistical solution which suits them best, be it servicing steel mills, raw material producers, agriculturalists, other commodity traders or industrial end-users.

The company has its main focus in the dry bulk segment, with a strong presence in almost all trade flows.

Conti-Lines operates a diversified mix of high-standard chartered tonnage,

Conti-Lines, Director Gregory Brion

owned tonnage and joint venture vessels.

On average, the company operates a fleet

“In 2015, we decided to begin an asset-

of 25 to 35 ships at any given time. It is a

based approach,” Mr Brion explained. “So,

proud subsidiary of the Conti-Lines Group

we started selling service-orientated activ-

which dates back to 1923, meaning it is

ities and went from being operators with all

celebrating its centenary this year. The

agencies to becoming an owner-operator.

company has evolved steadily since it

We bought five second-hand vessels, of

was founded.

which we have already sold two.”

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CONTI-LINES

I PROFILE

For specific trades, Conti-Lines has

The new strategy involves taking inspiration

developed several joint ventures, including

from the company’s experience of deep-sea

with Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) in Japan.

operations around Africa.

“We have been very active in Japan and

“I started the short-sea services based

have been working with MOL for more

on the already successful model of deep-

than 18 years,” Mr Brion said. “In 2020, we

sea business that my brother, Jean-Yves

secured deals with Japanese owners for

Brion, and his team have put in place over

long term-chartered newbuilds, varying

the years,” Mr Brion explained.

between 38,000 and 64,000DWT. So,

As part of the short-sea strategy, the

from handysize to supermax. The handy-

company runs services out of Antwerp

size’s are used for our steel operations,

into Morocco and Algeria, having already

whereas the supermax is more for

established a joint venture with Marine

concentrates and grains.”

Chartering Services (MCS) in 2017.

“MCS has routes out of the Adriatic into

Short-sea strategy

northern Africa,” Mr Brion explained. “The

Though deep-sea services are Conti-Lines

company goes into Algeria and Morocco

core established business, short-sea activity

and back, via Spain and Portugal to the

has been a significant recent development.

UK. So basically, our two services cross

96 Inside marine

each other at Gibraltar, and this joint

Coastal and acquired our first short-sea

venture has been going on successfully

vessel the CL Atlas, a 6,000DWT,” Mr Brion

for six years.”

said. “Recently, we have also made an

The company also found it had to invest in its own tonnage in order to

order for two 3,800DWT newbuilds that will launch in early 2024.

get adequate vessels for the short-sea

“We intend to become one of the major

market. “This year, we created Conti-Lines

short-sea operators with regards to trading between Europe, Turkey and West Africa.

We see that many of the well-established short-sea owners are focused on northern Europe, like the UK into the Baltic Seas. We are looking the other way, towards the Mediterranean all the way to West Africa.

“We have a strong network across the Mediterranean and understand what is needed from a good agent. Our partner MCS has been active for more than 20 years in the Adriatic. And of course, we have been active for 100 years in Antwerp now. So, we know the ins and outs of the business and that’s something that gives added value to the services we provide.”

Partnerships for the future The company is looking ahead with optimism taking the future of the entire industry into account. Diversification is very important, more specifically developing warehouse activities and port operations.

Inside marine 97

98 Inside marine

Inside marine 99

CONTI-LINES

I PROFILE

One long-term investment comes in the

storage of a wide range of refrigerated

form of a venture with Seafrigo to build

and frozen perishables. The development

a sustainable frozen food warehouse

of a frozen warehouse will allow the

with space for more than 40,000 pallets

alliance of the two companies to expand

on a site of approximately six hectares.

its maritime network through strong inter-

Seafrigo Antwerp NV will be responsible for its operation and the processing and

national partnerships.

The warehouse offers essential added value for the Antwerp cold chain segment, given the very high utilisation rate in the temperature-controlled warehouses and the current market demand.

As a family-owned enterprise, Mr Brion and his brother represent the third generation. The future is bright with many plans and objectives. Like many European companies, Conti-Lines also has its sights set on 2030, as part of the EU’s commitment to reach Net Zero.

100 Inside marine

“We know that there will be a massive turnover in vessels and that we will need to invest in newbuilds with innovative technologies and new ways of consumption,” Mr Brion concluded. “In my grandfather’s day, the challenge was the invention of the container. My father, Jean-Frederic Brion, who is CEO, had to cope with globalisation and our trades moving to the Black Sea area and the Far East. The sustainable and environmental question will be something very important for our generation.

“As an anecdote: the company started in 1923 with the Founder acquiring two short-sea vessels. On 7th February 2023 – the day we celebrated our 100-year anniversary - we also ordered two new short-sea vessels. Though the company has gone through many stages and evolutions in the intervening years, history repeats itself in the end.”

n

Inside marine 101

NORSTAR GROUP

102 Inside marine

I PROFILE

Delivering safe, efficient and reliable ship management services whilst facilitating a positive social and environmental impact is integral to the Norstar philosophy. The ship management company maintains a collaborative approach with partners, while putting the welfare of its crew at the forefront of all operations. Managing Director Dr Lars Gruenitz explained to Imogen Ward and Hannah Barnett why wellbeing is so important.

AT

Norstar, the crew come

role in the company. When I’m on a busi-

first. Though the shipping

ness trip, the ships don’t stop: I just have

industry may be going

to make sure that my guys are supported.”

through a period of flux, responding to ever more stringent environmental

Backing mental health

standards as the company itself moves

On Seafarers’ Day in 2021, the company

towards a greener fleet, crew welfare

launched the Norstar WellAtSea pro-

remains constant as the number one

gramme for all vessels under its manage-

priority for Norstar.

ment to improve the overall wellbeing

“I see the ship management office

of crew members. This has now been

as a support office,” Dr Lars Gruenitz,

extended to personnel based ashore in

Managing Director, explained. “We don’t

Singapore, Yangon, Tokyo and Westport.

run the ships, it’s the guys on-board who

WellAtSea is an evidence-led start-up

run the ships. Our job is only to support.

that aims to improve the overall wellbeing

Compared to them, I hold a relatively minor

of the seafarer by introducing continuous

Inside marine 103

Top Global Engine Maker

Developing solution programs to improve engine performances and fulfill expectations.

Looking forward to what we can create together in the future.

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104 Inside marine

NORSTAR GROUP

I PROFILE

and sustainable organisational change.

in group discussions and exercises through

It provides programmes specially

WellAtSea brought us closer as a crew,”

designed and created by health experts

Zayar Tin Htwe, 2nd Officer, MT Swan Pride,

like medical doctors, physiotherapists

agreed: “We found ourselves speaking more

and psychologists.

openly about our feelings, sharing concerns,

“Working with WellAtSea really accelerated during Covid,” Dr Gruenitz said. “They have

addressing problems and fostering a stronger sense of camaraderie among us.”

an app that gamifies wellness. So by doing certain activities, a player can earn trim coins which serve as currency used to make purchases at an online store within the app. And in doing so, it helps the player get off the sofa and get active.”

The gamification element has appealed to members of the crew, too. “The WellAtSea programme has improved crew mental and physical wellbeing by fostering crossdepartmental relationships, enhancing

“MedSea's remote medical support has been a vital asset. We've had the confidence to seek medical assistance when needed, and they've responded swiftly. During the pandemic, one crew member suffered from high blood pressure and lost consciousness. Local regulations made it difficult to access medical care, but with MedSea's guidance, we successfully transported our crew member to a hospital in China, ultimately saving their life."

Capt Aung Tun Kyaw, Master, MT Swan Pride

teamwork and reducing stress,” said Han Win Aung, 2nd Officer, MT Swan Dignity.

Promoting physical health

“The most effective motivation comes

Norstar has also been working with

from earning trim coins through participa-

International SOS, which runs a dedicated

tion in the challenges, as they can be used

hotline for marine medical assistance,

for rewards and in auctions.”

known as MedSea. It aims to solve more

WellAtSea also aims to promote a culture

than 80% of cases on-board. It means

of openness onboard to combat issues

a crew member does not have to suffer

which may arise at home and are therefore

undiagnosed for days before reaching port.

largely out of a crew member’s control.

It is also a confidential service: Norstar

As Dr Gruentiz explained: “Our seafarers

management can only view aggregated

might be somewhere on the other side of

data, to help improve protective equipment

the world and there’s only so much he or

and procedures. Private medical details are

she can do about a problem at home. It can

kept that way.

create a feeling of helplessness. We need

“MedSea’s remote medical support is the

a strong social network on board where

best service our company provides,” Phyoe

people can talk openly.”

Thant Sin, 3rd Engineer, MT Swan Dignity,

These preventive and combative measures have been widely embraced and the company now enjoys a high participation rate in group activities. “Engaging

106 Inside marine

said, “and I feel lucky to have it. It helps me and my family. It is a crucial resource.”

Alongside the hotline, Norstar offers fully comprehensive medical insurance for

Inside marine 107

NORSTAR GROUP

I PROFILE

event in my life, and I’m forever grateful to Norstar for providing this assistance.”

The company has also implemented the first Starlink onboard its Golden Curl vessel in May this year, to increase bandwidth and provide reliable high-speed internet, improving communication with international offices and family members.

“Digitalising our ships has greatly improved crew wellbeing and safety,” personnel and their kin.

The cover is intended to give

Captain Tin Maung Kyi, Master of Golden Curl, said. “It ensures reliable

peace-of-mind to seafarers if a

communication to stay in touch with

family member is unwell while they

loved ones through voice and video

are away, and it also helps to attract potential employees. Phyoe Thant Sin, 3rd

calls, as well as sharing updates and accessing entertainment.”

Engineer, MT Swan Dignity, is one staff member with particularly special memories

Health and safety focus

of the service. “My wife gave birth to our

In today’s world, health and safety are

daughter with the help of this medical

crucial facets for all organisations – nowhere

support,” he said. “It’s the most significant

more so than the shipping industry. It is

108 Inside marine

therefore vital that Norstar upholds the

to learn,” Dr Gruenitz said. “Seafarers

highest standards, and the company is

have to go to school for their COC, but

vetted regularly.

then it’s hands-on. And we have crew

Along with managing and maintaining

development documented within the

mental and physical health, a safe and

system, so we know where people are

healthy work environment is, of course,

at. I can open my dashboard right now

essential for the wellbeing of Norstar

and write down how my crew are, based

crew, as well as for the efficient and

on all the latest appraisals.”

successful functioning of its operations.

Looking ahead, Norstar is preparing

Therefore, the company follows the

to manage ammonia-fuelled vessels by

highest health and safety protocols

2026, as Dr Gruenitz observed that this is

and implements them across all vessels

a likely development in the industry. The

and offices.

company is sure that although the fuel of

“The oil majors come to our office quite

the future may change, what will continue

regularly,” Dr Gruenitz explained, “and we

to keep the ships running will be the

have the highest approval level with them.

people manning them. Therefore, crew

We have a very comprehensive HSEQ

welfare remains a top priority at Norstar.

system, and we also invest quite a bit

“The three best things about my job are:

of time and money into having our data

people, people and people,” Dr Gruenitz

translated in real time. So we can actually

concluded. “I enjoy working with different

look at our dashboards and see trends

nationalities. Plus, with decarbonisation,

before they turn into anything bad.”

I think we actually can change the ship-

The company runs monthly safety

ping industry for the better. We’re going

training sessions from its facility in

to have to be at the forefront of this

Yangon, and onboard, crew members

change and see what can realistically be

pass on their accumulated knowledge.

done: which means to keep thinking out-

“We encourage our senior officers to

side the box, keep supporting our crew

mentor our juniors, because there’s a lot

and staff, and keep going.”

n Inside marine 109

CETUS MARITIME

I PROFILE

Chief Commercial Officer Jens von Husen

110 Inside marine

Born from a merger between Asia Maritime Pacific and Hamburg Bulk Carriers, Cetus Maritime brings a new strength to the dry bulk shipping sector. The Hong Kong-based company currently has 40 vessels.

Chief Commercial Officer Jens von Husen shared the company’s story and its strong plans for fleet renewal. Report by Imogen Ward and Phil Nicholls.

T

he creation of Cetus Maritime at the end of 2022 arose from a joint project between Asia Maritime Pacific

and Hamburg Bulk Carriers. The resulting close collaboration of executives from the two companies was just the first step in a longer journey.

“That project was how we got to know each other,” Chief Commercial Officer Jens von Husen explained.

“This is how shipping works, it's all about the chemistry between people.

I am a strong believer in people, and this is a people business.

“HBC had plenty of operating expertise, while the team from AMP probably had a little more owning expertise; but the merger made sense. All the people involved liked each other and there has been a good understanding from day one. All those factors made the merger much easier.”

Alongside the office in Hong Kong, the company also has representatives in Shanghai, Singapore, Manila, Tokyo, Melbourne, Hamburg and Austin. The name Cetus Maritime draws on many concepts that are important to the

Inside marine 111

CETUS MARITIME

I PROFILE

company: as a water constellation, Cetus

This is especially true for those projects

represents the history of ocean naviga-

which will help mould Cetus Maritime into

tion. The image of Cetus as the whale also

an agile organisation able to face the chal-

reminds the team of the broader ocean

lenges of the evolving shipping industry.

environment, as well as its responsibilities to that environment.

As an example of this strategy, in August 2023 Cetus Maritime entered into a partnership with Yangzijiang Financial.

Sailing forth

This is a leading cross-border investment

As a very young company, Cetus

manager in Asia, with Singapore and the

Maritime is at the start of its voyage.

PRC as core markets. Yangzijiang

The management team is open to the

Financial is focused on long-term value

possibility of additional joint ventures or

creation, making it an ideal partner for

acquisitions in the future of the company.

Cetus Maritime on its ongoing project

112 Inside marine

of replacing older, smaller vessels with

sent state of the shipping industry. “The

a young handysize fleet.

market is currently seeing a new trading

In the short-term, the key concern at

pattern,” Mr von Husen continued. “So,

Cetus Maritime is fleet renewal, according

everybody is a little cautious; and rightly

to Mr von Husen: “We intend to grow

so, if we look at the global economy.

alongside the market and when the time

“Global logistics are changing. The

is right, increase our fleet to around 50

market is not at full steam capacity wise,

or 60 vessels, then take on more cargo-

there are still a lot of delays in ports and

based contracts.

at the Panama Canal. Shipping needs a

“This will help us achieve our goal of becoming one of the top five global players in the industry.”

little bit of a bridging period, where the industry has a reset.”

Cetus Maritime is applying the team’s

One further point of consideration for

collective knowledge to understand this

the Cetus fleet renewal programme is the

bridging process and build up the com-

issue of propulsion within shipping. Once

pany to thrive in the emerging industry.

a clear form of sustainable fuel has

Alongside the challenges of the global

emerged, then Cetus is ready to commit

market, Cetus Maritime is also working

and be part of the process of change

to recruit the right personnel package

within the industry.

to grow with the company.

The traits of Cetus Maritime should

State of play

make this recruitment process much

The team at Cetus Maritime is eager to

easier, according to Mr von Husen: “We

push forward with these expansion plans,

are still a young company, and we are

but there is also an awareness of the pre-

still in the building phase for our teams.

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CETUS MARITIME

I PROFILE

This means we can offer exciting career prospects to young people. I think the way we want to grow Cetus offers the team a good future, and this potential is a core part of our recruitment strategy.”

In order to help build a pool of talent within the industry, Cetus Maritime plans to participate in apprenticeship schemes from 2024 onwards, notably in Germany. This dedication to nurturing enthusiastic youngsters will ensure a healthy future for the shipping sector.

Indeed, within Cetus Maritime there is a great belief in the merits of education, with a dedicated in-house training programme. “We always like our people to be up to date, because that makes the

114 Inside marine

day-to-day business easier,”

This proved to be a popular project around

said Mr von Husen. “This is

the office, as well as an opportunity to

another way in which we look

support a worthy cause.

after our team. At the end of the

“I believe that it is important to partici-

day, the people are what makes

pate wherever you can be of help and

a business.”

assistance,” Mr von Husen said. “I always say that in life, whatever you give, you

A growing team spirit

will get back. So I think it's only fair that

The motivated and experienced team at

we support people who need help. It is

Cetus Maritime is a core part of what sets

this spirit that makes for a healthy

the young company apart from the com-

working atmosphere at Cetus. Having

petition. “As a team, we are ready to rock

good colleagues with a good under-

and roll, so to speak,” Mr von Husen

standing of the business makes coming

explained. “Cetus Maritime is focusing

to the office such a pleasure for me.”

on a certain size of vessel, mainly the

It is this highly motivated team that

handysize and the handymax. As we

will build a promising future for Cetus

grow, we are dedicated to becoming

Maritime. “Shipping is an industry that is

a good partner within the industry.”

changing all the time,” Mr von Husen said,

As part of Cetus Maritime’s goal of being

in conclusion. “That's probably also what

a supportive partner to the broader ship-

makes shipping so unique, and such an

ping industry, the team has been involved

attractive challenge. I am lucky to be

in community action by supporting partici-

working in an industry that will never

pants in the seafarer’s hiking challenge.

become boring.”

n Inside marine 115

COOL CARRIERS

I PROFILE

Cool Carriers is one of the world’s largest operators of specialised reefer vessels. Chief Operating Officer Glenn Selling outlined the state of the company and its plans for fleet expansion, in conversation with Phil Nicholls.

116 Inside marine

D

uring the pandemic, Cool Carriers

about how to celebrate this event, but this

played a vital global role by

will most likely take place in our new office

maintaining sea transportation

in Limassol.”

of fruits and other perishable cargo.

As the world returns to normal, the com-

A cool fleet

pany has another cause for celebration

Today, Cool Carriers supports a worldwide

on the horizon.

network of routes with offices in Chile,

“Cool Carriers started operation on the

Cyprus, South Africa, Sweden and the

19th of December 1984,” Chief Operating

USA. The company also enjoys the sup-

Officer Glenn Selling explained. “We are

port of a vast number of agents in ports

therefore celebrating our 40th anniversary

around the world.

in 2024. This means we have 40 years of

Cool Carriers is involved in all the major

being the largest operator of specialised

reefer activities in a worldwide trading

reefers. We are still at the planning stage

pattern. A fleet of specialised reefer

Inside marine 117

COOL CARRIERS

I PROFILE

vessels carry a wide range of produce,

handling. The ships can be equipped with

including bananas, citrus, kiwifruit and

advanced systems for a controlled atmo-

pineapples, as well as frozen meat and

sphere. All vessels are staffed with

fish. The company is also a founding

specially trained crew.

member of the 360 Quality Association and

Exciting and interesting times lie ahead

focuses heavily on being fast, dedicated

for the fleet, with a robust expansion pro-

and direct. It is these traits which are

gramme underway, according to Mr Selling:

highly appreciated by clients.

“We are taking delivery of a vast number

Currently, Cool Carriers operates a fleet

of new builds within the next few years.

of 45 vessels. Most of these vessels have

They are all fitted with scrubbers, and

high-container capacity on deck, along

they are all built with 2.50m deck height

with cranes for self-sustained container

capacity under deck. This means the specialised reefer industry is finally able to accept goods of so-called high cube pallets.Entering our fleet are two more sister ships to Cool Eagle, currently our

118 Inside marine

largest and most modern vessel. This

This leading global position is further

means we will then operate five ships

enhanced by Cool Carriers being one of

of that class. In addition, there are 10 to 12

the founding members of the 360 Quality

units of different sizes planned for delivery

Association. This body is dedicated to

between 2025 and 2027.”

improving food safety and food quality in

To support this growing fleet, Cool

specialised reefer shipping. The main task

Carriers will soon move into a new head

of the Association is to develop guidelines

office in Limassol, Cyprus. These offices

for the implementation of the 360 Code

have been constructed specifically for

and ensure it evolves to meet the needs

Cool Carriers.

of the market.

The 360 Quality Code is a set of voluntary

360 quality, 365 days a year

standards for specialised reefer shipping

These new additions to the Cool Carriers

lines and their service providers. These

fleet will cement its position as the largest

standards aim to meet the needs of cus-

operator of specialised reefer vessels. The

tomers by promoting the highest standard

inherent flexibility of a large fleet enables

of quality and cargo care on reefer vessels,

Cool Carriers to stand out in the market

in port terminals, in liner trades and in

and meet customers’ needs.

container depots.

Inside marine 119

COOL CARRIERS

I PROFILE

with our customers,” said Mr Selling.

“During the pandemic we and other operators were basically able to pick and choose the best part of the ‘smorgasbord’ of cargo opportunities.

“Partly, we did; but not entirely. We also This Code recognises that reefer shipping

stayed with our core customers during

lines and their service providers must

those two years of pandemic, because

work together to achieve this goal. The

we are convinced long-term relationships

360 Quality Code brings transparency

pay off in the end. We are proud service

to the supply chain of perishables, and

providers to the export and import industry,

the central principle is that in a collabo-

and these partnerships are important to

rative supply chain, everyone involved

our success.”

should assume responsibility for their

Working from this solid foundation,

activities and take corrective action

the core objective at Cool Carriers is to

to eliminate defects.

maintain this focus on specialised reefer vessels. “The worldwide pandemic made

Partnerships for the future

people understand how specialised

As to be expected of a founding com-

reefer fleets like Cool Carriers kept the

pany of the 360 Quality Association, Cool

global transportation of perishable goods

Carriers places a premium on working

afloat,” said Mr Selling.

collaboratively. “We do indeed target

An important challenge for the entire

having a long-term working relationship

shipping industry is to meet the EU 2030

120 Inside marine

Emission Trading System, ETS. Cool Carriers’ technical department is actively engaged in meeting all necessary regulations, according to Mr Selling: “The EU ETS is a cornerstone of the EU’s policy to combat climate change and its key tool for reducing greenhouse gas emissions cost-effectively.”

Cool Carriers is handily placed to continue dominating the sector for many years to come. In conclusion, Mr Selling summarised

“Eventually, my retirement is inevitable,

his engagement with the industry: “I have

and I will indeed miss all my wonderful

spent 45 years in shipping – onboard ships,

colleagues and even competitors.

as well as in different offices. The most

I will, however, remain for another while

exciting part has been all the fantastic

because it will be fantastic to see the

people I’ve met and all the amazing places

arrival of the new ships into the Cool

I have seen.

Carriers fleet.”

n

Inside marine 121

ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY

122 Inside marine

I PROFILE

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (IoMSPCo) was founded almost two hundred years ago, making it the world’s oldest continually operating passenger ship service. The company provides freight, passenger and vehicle services between the Isle of Man Sea Terminal in Douglas and four ports in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Managing Director Brian Thomson explained to Hannah Barnett how this historic, yet modern and highly functional service is an attraction in itself.

Inside marine 123

ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY

I PROFILE

he Isle of Man Steam Packet Company

T

said Mr Thomson. “The vessels, and the

was founded in 1830 because the

sailors on them, are remembered and

island needed a reliable service.

celebrated on the island regularly.”

Thomson, it has flourished ever since, pro-

as it is owned by the Isle of Man

viding islanders with strong links to the rest

Government. But it is nonetheless essen-

of the British Isles, and vice versa.

tial that the ferry lines remain economi-

And, according to Managing Director Brian

“We currently have services to Ireland

The IoMSPCo has no direct competitors

cally viable. One of the busiest times of

and England,” Mr Thomson reflected. “I think

the year is late spring when the Isle of

that was a key connection for the island,

Man TT motorcycle race, which has been

as these days the population is divided

running since 1907, attracts fans and

amongst those places. Even people who

participants to cross in their thousands.

are mostly Manx will have a connection to the UK, so the service has probably shaped

Investing in vessels

the population.”

One of the most innovative ways the

Company vessels were requisitioned

IoMSPCo keeps moving forward is with

by the Royal Navy during both the First

its investment into new vessels. In May

and Second World Wars, and the impact

2023, the company’s newbuild Manxman

of those momentous events can still be

began the long voyage home from Ulsan,

felt on the island today. “Some of our

South Korea, to Douglas, Isle of Man.

ships were sunk and people were lost,”

The flagship vessel was built in a South

124 Inside marine

Korean shipyard, an investment of over £78 million.

The vessel has been specifically designed for the Heysham to Douglas route. It has a larger freight and passenger capacity than other services and is generally more luxurious, with a better choice of lounges and food.

“Manxman is built to offer that full customer experience,” Mr Thomson said.

“Not that the current customer experience was not adequate, but we wanted to offer some real value for money. Ferry travel isn't cheap, with fuel and wages to account for. We want customers to enjoy their experience and to feel they get a

moment. I think people just want more space

mini cruise for their money. A holiday to

post-Covid – and to enjoy some privacy.”

the Isle of Man starts on the ferry.”

Another notable vessel run by the IoMSPCo

Construction started on Manxman in

is the Manannan, which is a high-speed

2020 and continued, despite the chal-

craft. Manannan started service on the

lenges posed by the pandemic. “We

Douglas to Liverpool route in May 2009 and

worked through the issues caused by

has transported passengers in comfort ever

the distance and restrictions,” said

since. The spacious accommodation offers

Mr Thomson. “I think we have built an

a variety of seating areas, including two

amazing partnership. Other companies

cinema lounges, a large bar area at the stern

struggled to build vessels during that time,

and the Coast-to-Coast café.

so we are really proud that we managed it, and on budget too.”

Other highlights of Manxman include

As a parallel project with Manxman, Manannan has also been recently refurbished, with the intention of bringing the

the introduction of pet facilities. According

interior design of the latter in line with

to Mr Thomson, this initiative comes as

the newbuild. “We’ve invested a million

increasingly more customers choose

pounds in this refit. We want to give pas-

to bring their dogs on holiday. Manxman

sengers on the high-speed craft a similar

offers canine-friendly cabins and a spe-

experience,” explained Mr Thomson.

cialised walking area.

“There are more standard and premium

Freight services

cabins on the new vessel as well,” he added.

Alongside its reliably luxurious passenger

“Cabins are becoming more popular. There

services, the IoMSPCo is the main freight

seems to be a lot of demand for them at the

supplier to the Isle of Man. This makes

Inside marine 125

ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY

I PROFILE

up roughly half the company’s customer

we could be fitted in for a dry dock space

base and runs from Heysham. Even during

if we needed it. That relationship between

business-as-usual, the near sole respon-

us and the shipyards is so well established.

sibility to supply an island is an important

Most people in this company have been

responsibility. Through the pandemic, it

here over 20 years. So, they know our

was a vital one.

suppliers and enjoy great relationships.”

“We ran a service all through Covid, which supplied the island with freight goods and

A bright future

food,” Mr Thomson said. “This was before

Looking ahead, the IoMSPCo is making

I joined the company in July 2021. The staff

all the right moves to ensure it will be

deserve a lot of credit for keeping everyone

around for another two hundred years.

supplied. It's something that gets forgotten

Sustainability is the next challenge. The

because everyone is moving on from Covid

company is already on its way to running

no: but I will certainly remember it forever,

as a green ferry operator after Manxman

because I was able to feed my family during

was fitted with pioneering diesel-electric

the time we were in lockdown.”

hybrid engines.

Retaining links with the UK remains

“At the time we ordered them, they were

important, and it is fortunate that the

the most efficient hybrid diesel engines in

IoMSPCo uses dry docks in Liverpool and

the world,” Mr Thomson said. “We want to

Belfast that are only a ferry ride away. The

look at the development of fully electric

company’s secret to a strong relationship

ferries as well as low carbon fuel types in

with its supply chain is cooperation,

the future.”

according to Mr Thomson.

As Mr Thomson conceded, the avail-

“We like to give shipyards warning of

ability of low carbon fuel is still far too

our visit a year in advance,” he continued.

unpredictable to invest in yet. But it is

“I think they appreciate knowing when we

definitely on the, agenda alongside the

are coming. But at the same time, we also

IoMSPCo’s core founding purpose: to be

know if there was an emergency, we

an outstanding ferry operator for tourists

have a good enough relationship that

and islanders alike.

126 Inside marine

Managing Director Brian Thomson

“Our vision is to continue to consolidate a reliable service, while simultaneously improving quality and value for money everywhere that we can,” Mr Thomson concluded. “We must overcome the global challenges that everyone is facing, like the economy. Our goal is to make sure we still are an attractive proposition for tourists. But also, as a company, to provide links to the UK and service the islanders in the way we always have.”

n

Inside marine 127

iM seven seas, five oceans, one voice

TECHNOLOGY & SERVICES maritime robotics

subctech

gulf marine services

versilia supply service

north star

international naval works

MARITIME ROBOTICS

130 Inside marine

I PROFILE

Initially set up in 2005, Maritime Robotics has revolutionised the marine industry with first-class uncrewed surface vehicles that are safer, more efficient and promote sustainability when compared to traditional boats.

Founder & Managing Director Vegard Evjen Hovstein attended an exclusive interview with Inside Marine’s Imogen Ward to discuss the latest in ocean space autonomy.

AT

the heart of Maritime Robotics

development of marine autonomy. The

is a desire to keep seafarers

company has achieved this by commit-

safe. Every innovative solution

ting to a strong vision of enabling ocean

manufactured by the company is created with that priority in mind.

space autonomy.

“Enabling is the element that we are most

“Safety is number one,” said Founder &

proud of,” Mr Hovstein explained. “We have

Managing Director Vegard Evjen Hovstein:

a global reputation as enablers because

“Our uncrewed surface vehicles have two

no matter what, we make it work. We have

main purposes. Firstly, they are able to

a clear-cut understanding of the environ-

improve the safety for personnel by

ment within which our products are

removing them from dangerous situations.

working; this has allowed us to develop

And secondly, they can aid crewed

technology which can operate above, on

operations with autonomous support,

and beneath the water’s surface. This is

to make room for safer decision making.”

our ocean space. Finally, we remain

Since its inception 18 years ago, Maritime Robotics has been leading the

amongst the top performing companies within maritime autonomy.”

Inside marine 131

NORBIT NORBIT develops and manufactures easyto-integrate wideband sonar systems for the hydrographic, security, energy and dredging markets, pioneering integrated ultra-high resolution multibeam systems.

NORBIT offers two main sonar products: the WINGHEAD series provides ultra-high-resolution bathymetry with 0.5deg beams, while the WBMS series offers 0.9deg beams.

Both series are based on a state-of-the-art analogue and digital platform featuring powerful signal processing capabilities, stabilised bathymetry and several imagery and backscatter outputs, ensuring the highest quality survey data performance. editorial mention

132 Inside marine

MARITIME ROBOTICS

I PROFILE

The neXt generation of Otter

will provide it with greater flexibility for

Amongst Maritime Robotics’ hugely

tool carrying.

successful portfolio of USVs is the best-

“The Otter X is our first product designed

selling Otter, renowned for its expertise at

to be a robot helping robots,” said

data acquisition within sheltered waters.

Mr Hovstein. “It is a surface vessel that is

Currently the smallest product in Maritime

capable of carrying an underwater robot

Robotics’ offering, this two-metre vessel

to any given location for the aid of other

is about to undergo a revamp.

vessels completing underwater tasks. The

Having equipped the original Otter

Otter X has a sailing endurance far

with the software needed to complete

greater than an underwater robotics

small-time marine surveys, the company

system, so it is a real gamechanger.”

is now developing the Otter X. Two metres

Currently in its final stages of production,

longer than its predecessor, the Otter

Maritime Robotics anticipates the release

X’s size and multi-purpose capabilities

of Otter X later this year.

134 Inside marine

With such an exciting announcement,

standardised core technology,

Maritime Robotics has a sure confidence

whilst also maintaining our custom

in the success of the X edition, having

engineering capabilities.”

previously released the Mariner X: a multi-purpose USV capable of both

A cleaner, greener ocean space

offshore and coastal applications. Built from

A secondary competitive advantage

polyethylene, the vessel is extremely stable

comes in the form of the company’s

and low maintenance. An added bonus

integrated technology. Using SeaSight

of this USV is its extreme customisability:

(a situational awareness and collision

the spacious back-deck is ideal for cargo

avoidance system), Maritime Robotics’

transportation, satellite communications

vehicles can successfully navigate the

and even towing.

open waters, avoiding any potential

Customisation is a huge element of the

hazards that would interrupt operations.

Maritime Robotics’ customer-focused

The system relies on a collection of

approach. Every vehicle within the

low-light, high-definition cameras that

company’s production portfolio can

create an enhanced singular image for

be customised on request.

operators. With real-time video streaming

“Whatever our customers ask for,

and 180-degree panoramas, the SeaSight

they get,” said Mr Hovstein “Customisation

system provides visuals that are reflec-

has definitely been one of our biggest

tive of in-person views.

strengths and a huge competitive

Thanks to its advanced R&D, Maritime

advantage within the market. Looking

Robotics is not limited to the waters.

to the future, we plan to develop more

With the company’s OceanEye Balloon,

Inside marine 135

MARITIME ROBOTICS

I PROFILE

customers have access to 24/7 aerial

“Recently, we completed a project for

surveillance. As a moored system, the

a customer within the marine mapping

balloon can operate from fixed locations

segment – replacing a large, crewed vessel

or moving vessels, via its deployable

with our Mariner X. That particular USV still

base unit. Due to its fixed nature, the

uses a conventional combustion engine,

system is also more reliable than

but because of its significant size and

traditional aviation alternatives.

weight reduction; as a result, that customer

Maritime Robotics has also dipped its toe

had an emissions reduction of 95 per cent.”

into the world of drones, having developed the Uncrewed Aircraft System, Falk. With

Offshore operating for Ørsted

beyond-line-of-sight-operations, Iridium

Always ready to push the boundaries

satellite communications and the capacity

of ocean autonomy, Maritime Robotics

to run in sub-zero conditions, this drone is

recently collaborated on a very exciting

perfect for more isolated expeditions.

project with Ørsted (a world-leading

According to Mr Hovstein, when it comes

developer of offshore wind farms). The

to sustainability, the Maritime Robotics’

Ørsted project saw Maritime Robotics

systems have a lot of potential: “Autonomy

enter into an entirely new sector, creating

is certainly an enabler for improved

a world-first within offshore metocean

sustainability. They’re smaller vessels which

measurement. Using Maritime Robotics’

are more cost- and energy-efficient, and

USV control system, the prototype USV is

that can really help to improve the carbon

designed to operate long-term in extreme

footprint of our customers.

offshore conditions, collecting a variety

138 Inside marine

of data that will help in the initial develop-

35%, the company has been incredibly

ment of new wind farms.

successful thus far. As it travels along this

“We have been working on the Ørsted

path of progression, the company intends

product for around three years,” Mr

to continue innovating and revolutionising

Hovstein said. “The company utilised

the world of maritime autonomy.

our autonomous navigation system

“I see a lot of potential in our autonomous

within its USV design, and we see a lot of

navigation systems. If we continue to

promise in this product. It is definitely a con-

focus on those, then I am confident that

cept that has huge scalability and potential:

we will remain an industry leader,”

it really was a pleasure to work on a project

Mr Hovstein concluded. “We intend to do

with such capacity for change.”

that on an international level, expanding

In an industry that is growing 20%

our presence within the global market.

annually, Maritime Robotics is in the

We are ocean space enablers of autonomy.

prime position for continued expansion.

That is what we are known for, and that is

Currently achieving a yearly growth of

what we will continue to do.”

n Inside marine 139

SUBCTECH

I PROFILE

In the ever-evolving realm of underwater technology, German firm SubCtech stands out with its innovative approach to ocean monitoring and subsea power solutions.

Guided by the expertise of founder and CEO Stefan Marx, and COO Sören Johannsen, the company has carved a significant niche in this highly specialised industry. Richard Hagan sat down with both leaders to delve into SubCtech’s pioneering products, the challenges of subsea engineering and the sustainability of modern subsea energy storage.

140 Inside marine

B

ased in Kiel, Germany,

three sectors: offshore energy, under-

SubCtech has two

water vehicles and standard subsea

primary business

power products.

units – Ocean Monitoring and Ocean

According to founder and CEO Stefan

Power. The company began by manu-

Marx, SubCtech’s Ocean Power unit

facturing products to monitor seawater

offers both standard batteries and

quality, and over time, its focus evolved

bespoke solutions: “We are able to offer

to meet the increasing demand for

solutions that fit into the customer’s

battery power underwater.

available space and within its weight

From its relatively small beginnings

limitations - that’s where our roots lie and

crafting small underwater batteries,

that’s the service that has delivered our

the firm now boasts a staggering 1 MWh

growth thus far.”

battery storage system set to ship later this year.

SubCtech’s Ocean Power unit

Record-breaking storage The company’s engineering prowess

manufactures subsea batteries that can

was on full display in late 2023 with

be deployed aboard underwater vehicles

SubCtech’s unveiling of the latest,

- particularly unmanned vehicles - or as

greatest and biggest battery that it has

backups for oil and gas industry applica-

ever produced: a jaw-dropping 1 MWh

tions offshore. To ensure its customers

battery storage system.

are comprehensively serviced, the

The battery, which was produced to

Ocean Power unit is subdivided into

order for a client, is the first MHw battery

Inside marine 141

SUBCTECH

I PROFILE

in the world. But it is also only one

in order to accommodate growing

amongst many other batteries sold by

demand for the company’s products.

SubCtech each year. The company’s

Following several relocations around Kiel

off-the-shelf battery solutions that

to accommodate its growing workforce

it calls ‘Big Jim’ and ‘Long John’, are

and workload, SubCtech has put down

perennial best-sellers. Both battery

roots via the construction of its own

units have standard physical dimensions

production space. Its large new facility

and similar weights, but the innards can

includes 1,300sqm of covered space

be customised according to the cus-

and 1,500sqm of outdoor/storage areas.

tomer’s specific requirements, including

A move to a 4,000 sqm building is planned.

both the capacity and voltage – both

SubCtech’s products are qualified

within set limitations.

For vehicle-based solutions, SubCtech

according to military standards, and all are certified by Det Norske Veritas (DNV),

offers three different standard battery

an internationally accredited registrar

housing diameters, namely 260mm,

and classification society headquartered

310mm and 416mm internal diameter sizes,

in Norway. This DNV certification, which

but bespoke sizes, energy, power and

seeks to guarantee the safeguarding

voltage ranges are available on request.

of life, property and the environment, ensures not only total peace of mind for

Quality German engineering

the company’s products but crucially, it

SubCtech was founded in 2010 by current

is also a legal qualification for any equip-

CEO Stefan Marx, who boasts over 30

ment fitted to the deck of a vessel.

years’ experience working in ocean-related industries in various scientific and business

The importance of materials

roles. The company was originally head-

SubCtech sources the highest-quality

quartered in a small town near Kiel, but

raw materials from around the world

soon moved into Kiel proper, where its staff

for the construction of its products. COO

count has gradually risen from 20 to 76,

Sören Johannsen highlighted the reason

144 Inside marine

SUBCTECH

I PROFILE

that’s so important:

products, so many components that our

“The steps from prototyping

products need for deep-sea operations

to operational use for any

simply aren’t available on the market,

material and any product is a long

and so we have to make them ourselves.”

process involving testing and certifica-

The same applies to the company’s

tions. There’s a big difference with the

production machinery and even its

quality of materials used underwater and

testbed equipment, almost all of which

our task is to sell a fully qualified, 100 per

had to be developed and built in-house

cent secure product.”

since it simply didn’t exist to buy.

One of these materials is titanium,

Perhaps mercifully, then, one of the

which is used for every battery’s pressure

most important components - the lithium

hull. The pressure hull and most of the

battery cells themselves - are sourced

battery’s internal components are

from well-known producers with whom

manufactured at SubCtech.

SubCtech has supply contracts.

“We build most of the components in-house, including the pressure vessel,”

Sustainable electric power

Mr Marx said: “we also develop and pro-

While rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

duce the battery management systems,

have become commonplace in the daily

hardware, software, testing, control

lives of most consumers, it’s a relatively

systems and all battery components

new technology where subsea operations

in-house. While we’d prefer to use existing

are concerned. “It’s a big step forward for

146 Inside marine

the subsea industry and it’s an important topic for us,” Mr Marx confirmed. “particularly in terms of the way in which it improves the sustainability of the industry.

“Firstly, because we’re replacing primary batteries with rechargeable batteries, and secondly because hydraulic systems are being replaced by battery-electric sys-

The recycling process must follow

tems which have a design life of 25 years;

strict legal guidelines to ensure full

so it’s very robust and that makes it very

transparency, as Mr Johannsen pointed

sustainable because clients don’t have to

out: “The recycling is strictly regulated

replace it frequently. Lowering CAPEX and

by German law, requiring that every

OPEX costs is important - it’s beneficial to

item we recycle be documented so

us, our customers and our partners and

that the flow back to raw material is

ultimately it will lower energy prices.”

also documented.”

At the end of one of SubCtech’s battery

Concluding, Mr Marx highlighted how

lives, all of the components can be recycled.

the company’s best assets are driving it

Customers can simply return the batteries

forward: “We’ve learned over the years

to SubCtech, which then forwards them to

that even as a medium-sized company,

specialist partners for recycling. Although

we’re able to move the world a little bit.

they’re also fully recyclable, the titanium

Today, we have the best products with

pressure hulls housing SubCtech’s bat-

a great reputation and a high-quality

teries have an endless design life and

team. In my 30 years in the industry,

are simply reused by the customer.

that’s the recipe for success.”

n

Inside marine 147

GULF MARINE SERVICES

148 Inside marine

I PROFILE

Gulf Marine Services, a stalwart in the offshore marine industry, has consistently showcased its ability to adapt and innovate. As a key provider of stable platforms for numerous offshore operations, the company boasts a legacy of excellence and forward-thinking, with a portfolio of specialist services catering to the growing needs of both the renewables and oil & gas sectors. In discussion with Richard Hagan, Commercial Director Jamie Taylor provided insights into the company’s operations, history and future outlook.

the offshore support services

IN

barge, carrying out routine maintenance

industry, Gulf Marine Services

and, of course, moving the vessel from

(GMS) stands out as a pioneer,

platform to platform.”

with over four decades of relentless inno-

GMS supports its customers with a variety

vation and service. But at GMS, the word

of other day-to-day operational needs and

‘service’ is not loosely thrown around.

tasks, including support for lifting opera-

Indeed, as Commercial Director Jamie

tions, loading and unloading supply boats,

Taylor pointed out, providing best-in-class

and managing helicopter operations on

operation and maintenance services, (and

GMS’ helidecks during crew changes.

accommodation at hotel-quality), is core

“Generally, we support our customers

to what makes GMS and its teams so vital

wherever we can, allowing them to focus

to its customers’ operations: “Our highly

on better delivering particular projects and

sophisticated jack-up barges provide our

operations,” said Mr Taylor.

clients with a stable platform to run their operations from, which we support with

Offshore homes from home

various other services as well as catering

GMS works with clients ranging from

to the needs of the offshore workforce.

the major oil companies such as Aramco,

“Those services include managing

ADNOC and Qatar Energy, to the big EPC

a heliport, lifting supplies on and off the

contractors working for those firms.

Inside marine 149

GULF MARINE SERVICES

I PROFILE

GMS’s work in the Middle East is largely

In the European theatre, however, GMS’

in support of Oil and Gas exploration and

work primarily involves GMS Endeavour: a

production operations. Uniquely, the

tailored vessel designed for wind turbine

company also operates in the North Sea,

main component exchange currently

where historically it served oil and gas

being used for maintenance of offshore

clients; but today its primary business is in

windfarms throughout European waters.

supporting the development and ongoing maintenance of offshore windfarms.

“The Endeavour was substantially modified, with a bespoke package of equip-

GMS’ service offering is roughly similar

ment, so it could effectively support the

across the Middle East, where there is

maintenance of windfarms for Ørsted. The

substantial ongoing demand for its vessels,

modifications were tailored to support that

for work that ranges from the upkeep of oil

client’s turbine maintenance needs,” Mr Taylor

& gas platforms to supporting large-scale

said. “It includes yokes for lifting the turbine

offshore projects and operations.

blades and bespoke blade racks for carrying them to and from site. It also has cantilevering gangways, allowing access to the turbine structure.”

And by all accounts, GMS Endeavour has been extremely busy: “It’s the first vessel to be contracted to undertake offshore windfarm maintenance on a year-round basis,” Mr Taylor revealed. “Ørsted uses the vessel year-round to service all of their wind farms across Europe and Scandinavia.”

150 Inside marine

While the vessel is kept very busy replacing worn, damaged or end-of-life wind turbine parts, GMS could also provide supporting accommodation for renewable construction projects if and when needed – particularly in the final phases of carrying out maintenance of offshore windfarms.

“Wind farms need maintenance in order to keep production optimal,” Mr Taylor explained. “When a turbine

less versatile and more expensive jack-up

breaks down, or is not functioning prop-

rigs. The company’s lift boats provide a

erly, it stops producing electricity. So

basis for accessing offshore platforms

the work that Endeavour does is critical.”

via a stable platform, where a range of services are then provided to support

History and milestones

client operations and projects.

GMS was established in Abu Dhabi in 1977.

Following its acquisition by Gulf Capital

Starting out with a small fleet of offshore

in 2007, the company’s fleet of offshore

supply vessels, the company later transi-

supply vessels was divested, and it went

tioned to building and operating a fleet of

into a major new build programme, aimed

self-propelled lift boats. These vessels were

at expanding its fleet of lift-boats, lasting

pioneers of their time in the region, where

until 2016. During this time, GMS built sev-

previously oil companies had, typically had

eral vessels of different sizes.

Inside marine 151

GULF MARINE SERVICES

I PROFILE

Meanwhile, in 2014, GMS listed on the London Stock Exchange, marking a transition point that provided the company with the investment capital it needed to support its build programme.

In 2016 GMS celebrated a particularly

Fleet and operations

proud milestone when it took delivery of

Today, GMS owns 13 lift boats of different

GMS Evolution. This vessel was commis-

sizes and designs. These vessels can house

sioned with a heavy well intervention

up to 250 people at any given time, served

cantilever. “It’s a hybrid between a

by approximately 30 crew and catering

drilling rig and a lift boat,” Mr Taylor

personnel. Overall, its fleet is relatively

explained. “It was a pioneering design

young with an average age of just 11 years.

and the first of its kind. It’s currently

In addition to its headquarters in Abu

being used in Qatar in well intervention

Dhabi, GMS has offices in Saudi Arabia

and workover operations.”

and Qatar. Altogether, it employs 500 people drawn from over 30 different nationalities. The majority of its staff work primarily offshore, with crew changes happening on a rotation ranging from two weeks up to three months.

Facing market realities Historically the market for these types of vessels has peaked and troughed in line with the overall oil market. Demand is

152 Inside marine

currently strong, driven by significant

“For a the foreseeable future, we don’t see

offshore capital expenditure as national

demand outstripping supply.”

oil companies aim to meet rising global

In closing, Mr Taylor highlighted his

demand for oil. This translates to

enthusiasm for both his role at GMS and the

increased demands for GMS' type of jack-

work the company does: “It’s a very dynamic

up barges but it also leads to increased

business and there’s never a boring day.

competition The company expects that

Tendering activity is very high with a lot of

demand will remain high for the short to

competition for vessels, leading to high util-

medium term.

isation of our fleet. If you mix that in with our

“We don’t expect demand to change soon,

diverse workforce and environment, along

due to the strong pipeline of big EPC con-

with the challenges of operating vessels in

tracts that are being awarded by the NOCs

the Middle East and in Europe, then it brings a

in the short- to medium-term,” said Mr Taylor.

dynamism to the business on a daily basis.”n

Inside marine 153

NORTH STAR

I PROFILE

STEERING THE ENERGY TRANSITION With five decades of experience supporting the offshore industry, North Star is in prime position to accelerate the shipping sector’s transition to green energy. Chief Technology Officer James Bradford explained how the company is doing exactly that, in an exclusive interview. Report by Imogen Ward.

H

aving worked continuously in the offshore sector since the 1970s, the UK’s leading infrastructure support

vessel operator North Star is no stranger to the marine industry’s journey towards net zero. Now, eager to extend its fleet beyond oil and gas – to offshore wind, the company which employs more than 1,300 crew and onshore personnel from its bases in Aberdeen, Lowestoft, Newcastle and Hamburg – has set itself an ambitious goal.

“Our strategy is to add 40 hybrid -electric SOVs to our fleet by 2040,” said Chief Technology Officer James Bradford.

154 Inside marine

“And so far, we’ve made a great start

North Sea’s oil boom, it quickly became

with our first two service operation vessels

a highly regarded and respected emer-

delivered ahead of schedule. We’ve

gency response and rescue vessel (ERRV)

received a lot of positive feedback for

operator. The firm has the largest ERRV fleet

the Grampian Tyne and the Grampian

in Europe and provides essential crew

Derwent’s unique and innovative design,

rescue, firefighting, and other emergency

as well as our project management skills,

response services to offshore energy

which is a great position to be in as we aim

operations around the clock, 24/7, 365

to build our business across Europe.”

days a year.

Prior to working in the oil and gas sector,

“ERRVS are a mandatory requirement

the firm was established 135 years ago

for all offshore oil and gas installations,”

to aid the fisheries sector. Seizing on the

Mr Bradford said. “With the changing

Inside marine 155

NORTH STAR

I PROFILE

demands of the energy industry driven

comes a realisation that as we move to

by climatic considerations, the opportu-

protect the planet, the need for oil and gas

nity to transition our years of experience

will start to decrease. That’s why we made

garnered in ERRV operations (and proven

a conscious decision to start diversifying the

track record for reliable on-time simulta-

business into offshore wind.

neous newbuild programmes) made our

“But that’s not going to take a matter of

investment in a new ship design for the

weeks; it’s a transition that could take 20

renewable sector an obvious choice.

years to complete.”

“Not only is there an increasing need for energy security across Europe, but with that

Emerging ESG In line with its commitment to the renewables market, North Star has also recently implemented its own ESG strategy.

“The research really began in 2019,” Mr Bradford said. “It’s mainly being driven by metrics that have already been successfully applied to deep sea shipping; we are great believers in learning from other shipping categories that have previously been exposed to energy efficiency and decarbonisation regulatory diktat.

“As part of our decarbonisation plans, we’ve introduced a carbon intensity index across our fleet, so that we can more accurately measure our emissions. We have also included a commercial metric which is linked to the business’ transition from using fossil fuels to green energy. That metric will indicate how quickly we are making that move. We also have a technology roadmap which identifies the partners who we’ll call on to accommodate the ever-increasing regulations of a transitioning industry.”

Choosing the perfect partner The journey towards a greener fleet needs a well-structured plan and a solid financial backing to execute it. North Star was acquired in 2022 by Partners Group

156 Inside marine

C

(a leading global private markets firm), which, along with other investors, has enabled North Star to build its worldclass offshore wind tonnage. The company selected VARD as its shipbuilder and has delivered the first two of four SOVs ahead of schedule for the Dogger Bank Wind Farm for decade-long minimum charters. It also has the first two of up to four Construction SOVs underway with the organisation.

“We went through a comprehensive evaluation process that included several ship building yards,” said Mr Bradford.

“We put together our specifications which were based upon the project pillars of quality, cost and build time. VARD scored highly within all three areas.

Chief Technology Officer James Bradford

Inside marine 157

NORTH STAR

I PROFILE

“We’re really making the most of the

is doing extremely well. From the feedback

amazing technology available at VARD’s

we’ve received, the ship’s performance has

Vietnam and European yards, including

been quite exceptional. Equinor has been an

a huge amount of automation, from steel

amazing support as we brought the vessel

cutting to welding and fabrication. Their

up to full capacity, and we couldn’t be more

technology and our desire to deliver a clean,

delighted with the results.”

energy efficient service to the renewables sector really go hand-in-hand.”

The company is not one to rest on its laurels; the team always has an ear to the ground for new innovation developments. For example,

40 by 2040

the North Star SOVs deploy the Electric Voith

With the first two SOVs delivered, and four

Schneider Propeller (eVSP) from Voith. The two

more underway, the ball is well and truly

eVSPs per vessel are eVSP 26/230 with 1850

rolling for North Star’s ambitions.

kW each, plus an electronic control system.

“The Grampian Tyne was delivered directly

The eVSP has Voith roll stabilisation, a unique

to Equinor for operations and maintenance

feature which allows active roll reduction of

work,” Mr Bradford explained. “She’s been

the vessel, providing a more stable and safe

in service for a couple of months now and

working platform.

“There is a saturation of technology within the market that could satisfy people’s needs for the next 10 years, but there’s nothing that is legacy at this time,” Mr Bradford said. “So we’ve configured our designs with high efficiency engines, open technology and energy storage systems – batteries – to afford North Star the time required to evaluate how the technology evolves and finally stabilises as the industry transitions. We have chosen methanol as our chosen future fuel for this transitionary period, which reduces our carbon emissions by 92 per cent. We are also installing energy storage back-up systems.”

In the meantime, the company is currently looking at two future fuel options for its ERRVs and is in talks regarding methanol, and HVO diesel supply and fuel blending technology.

“HVO would reduce our emissions by 85 per cent if we applied it to all of our ERRVs,”

158 Inside marine

Mr Bradford said. “The main barrier for that, though, is the price. Currently HVO is three times more expensive than marine gas oil.

In order to move forward, the industry really needs to come together to make it more affordable. The regulatory bodies can’t expect businesses to be financially compromised to go green.”

North Star is also looking into drone technology to further aid its support to the offshore wind sector. With so much on the cards, the future for the firm looks bright.

“I’m a great believer that if you’re happy with what you do, then you will always excel,” Mr Bradford concluded. “I’ve applied that to my entire life, and it is applicable to North Star as well. There’s an energy within the organisation that is hard to find. The atmosphere is buzzing, and the challenge is always forthcoming, which is great.

“What North Star is achieving – along with its technology partners – is something you don’t come across very often.

I really believe this company is one in a million, and being a part of this journey is absolutely fantastic.”

n

Inside marine 159

VERSILIA SUPPLY SERVICE

160 Inside marine

I PROFILE

Based in Viareggio in central Italy, Versilia Supply Service represents a complete resource for the needs of every large yacht and its crew, offering a full range of supplies. CEO Giuliano Tomei highlighted the growth of services available to discerning customers. Report by Phil Nicholls.

W

ith almost 40 years’ experience,

“We represent a complete resource

Versilia Supply Service (VSS)

for the needs of every yacht and its crew,

has accumulated a wealth of

offering a 360-degree range of supplies,”

knowledge second to none in the yacht

CEO Giuliano Tomei explained. “Our team

supply sector. Through continuity of staff,

is organised into several specialised

and the well-established relationships

departments: engine, deck, safety and

forged with specialised suppliers, VSS

water sport. This partition allows us to

can offer an uncompromisingly efficient

provide support to operational yachts

service to clients.

worldwide, as well as those undergoing refit and new builds.”

Established in 1985, VSS has enjoyed a recent period of growth. In just five years, it has expanded its horizons by opening a new office in Savona, Italy. VSS has bolstering its operations around the Mediterranean with its sites in Antibes, France, Palma di Maiorca, Spain, and Livorno, Italy.

VSS has also enhanced its logistics network and enlarged the offices at its main headquarters at Viareggio in northern Tuscany. This expansion at the company required a restructuring of the operation and the emergence of two distinct business entities, each one focused on highly specialised sectors.

Versilia Supply Service remains focused on its existing excellence in providing technical materials, safety devices and water toys. Meanwhile, Versilia Provisions was established to become the flagship arm for the supply of fine foods, beverages and every necessity related to galley and

Inside marine 161

VERSILIA SUPPLY SERVICE

I PROFILE

interior. Versilia Provisions aims to meet

This period of steady expansion at VSS

the demands of on-board chefs and

was complemented by a 10% increase in

chief stewards through the supply of

sales last year, compared to 2021, reaching

superior quality items.

about €27M. The 2023 financial year has

“To ensure impeccable service, we've invested in a dedicated warehouse and, in

begun well, so VSS is confident that these figures will increase further.

parallel, we've developed a tailored logistics network,” Mr Tomei continued. “This

Luxury & quality, worldwide

carefully designed network is equipped

The four specialised departments, along

with specially commissioned refrigerated

with the sister company Versilia Provisions,

vehicles to preserve the freshness of goods.

allow VSS to supply the world’s finest

Additionally, a new operational headquar-

yachts with literally anything they might

ters has been established, reflecting our

need, from engine room spares, deck

constant pursuit of customer satisfaction and attention to detail.”

VSS is also in the process of renewing its website and internal management systems, as well as providing customers with mobile options for added connectivity. The MyVSS app is an online supplyassistant where clients can register to place orders, then track shipping and delivery. In parallel, the MyVP app delivers the same level of service and utility to customers, with a focus on the food and beverage aspect of the business.

162 Inside marine

equipment and cleaning consumables,

which can be imported directly into the

to luxury goods for the yacht’s interior

yacht's management system. This way,

and gourmet food and beverages.

the client will have complete control over

Thanks to its extensive fleet of vehicles,

all the data and products onboard.”

the VSS logistics department is able to cover the entire Mediterranean area,

Commitment and innovation

reaching the main ports or yacht locations

Alongside this comprehensive package

in the shortest time possible. Beyond this

of services, Mr Tomei was clear about

area, the company collaborates with reli-

what sets VSS apart from the competi-

able partners to ensure global coverage,

tion: “Our constant dedication to

extending the reach of this portfolio of services to every corner of the world.

“Furthermore, we have implemented a department that manages new constructions, creating detailed lists based on the yacht's dimensions,” said Mr Tomei. “These lists contain everything necessary to facilitate the crew in outfitting the boat, providing clear and detailed guidelines on everything they might require.

“VSS can also furnish clients with a file generated by our management system,

Inside marine 163

VERSILIA SUPPLY SERVICE

I PROFILE

research and tireless commitment to

“With our team of experts, we are

the development of each project are

capable of identifying and consistently

truly distinctive. VSS aims always to

delivering the desired product at the best

enhance the customer experience,

possible price. In addition, we strive to

adopting an ever-evolving approach

ensure simultaneous growth across all

to align with new procedures and

the departments of our group, ensuring

current regulations.

harmonious progress as a company.”

164 Inside marine

Following a warehouse fire in July 2023,

suppliers that spans the globe. VSS

the whole team at VSS is enthusiastic about

has collaborated with some of these

rebuilding. Rising up like a phoenix, the plan

suppliers for many years. Such decades-

for the warehouse reconstruction is to make

long relationships have enabled the

it even better. VSS is exploring adding an

team at VSS to build enduring bonds

extra floor to the new building, as well as the

of mutual trust and esteem with these

possibility of a large underground garage

long-standing partners.

for the fleet of delivery trucks.

“Alongside the challenge of the new

At the same time, VSS keeps a constant eye on the horizon, ensuring that it is fully

warehouse, VSS is continuing to build for the

aware of developments within the market.

future,” said Mr Tomei. “We are committed

In turn, this may lead to the company

to ensuring the growth of subsidiary opera-

seeking new partners who can fulfil what-

tions such as Versilia Provisions, Versilia

ever specific customer demands emerge

France and Versilia Spain.

in the future.

“This is all in addition to the consolidation

In conclusion, Mr Tomei was eager to

of our primary technical activities. Other

share his enthusiasm for working with the

challenges for the future include working

team at VSS: “The most beautiful thing is

with new collaborators and the continued

to be part of creating a company that has

development of our range of custom items

demonstrated reliability by maintaining

marketed under our own brand.”

over the years the same staff, which has grown to about 90. We are proud of the

The teamwork for success

team of people who work together with

An important factor in the collaborative

the utmost seriousness and profession-

business model at VSS is working

alism. I take great pride in being part of

alongside an extensive network of

the VSS family.”

n

Inside marine 165

INTERNATIONAL NAVAL WORKS

I PROFILE

With over 45 years of experience, International Naval Works provides a range of safe, reliable and high-quality marine services for the oil and gas industry. As a dominant presence across Egypt and the Middle East, Vice Chairman Captain Mohamed Omar Ezz El Din explained to Hannah Barnett how the company maintains its competitive advantage.

F

ounded in 1977, International Naval Works (INW) began with a small office in Alexandria with five

employees. It now has branches in Cairo, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, and over 500 employees. Safety is paramount for the success of a company like INW. “We work with about 300 fully trained divers, all of them certified and approved by the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA),” Captain Mohamed Omar Ezz El Din, Vice Chairman, said. “We are approved for diving, ROV and general marine services. We also have a good health and safety record – including for incidental time lost during working hours – and this gives us a competitive edge.

Because we work safely, we haven’t had any incidents for the last 10 years or more.

Accordingly, the company was awarded ADNOC Certificate of Achievement ‘Special

166 Inside marine

HSE Recognition’ for the Most Zero Lost Time in Man hours – Marine Industry.

We render our services in compliance

In early 2022, INW celebrated the launch of INW-30. The DP2 vessel is engaged in a long-term contract in the Mediterranean

with the International Standards and are

and acts as an anchor-handling and

certified from Bureau Veritas for Total

towing, supply, and rescue vessel. It can

Quality Management System as well.”

also be used for firefighting and the emergency evacuation of rigs, as well as

New vessels and growth In 2002, INW expanded operations by

a diving support unit.

“One remarkable operation carried out

opening subsidiary company International

by our team, using INW-30, was to success-

Marine Works (IMW), which was estab-

fully transfer a Christmas tree from off-

lished to work exclusively for the oil and

shore to the NEA 6 Platform,” said Captain

gas industry in Egypt, while INW provides

Ezz El Din. “INW-30 was also utilised for the

services both in Egypt and across the wider

towing of the jack-up rig El Qaher-1.

Middle East.

Operating within Egypt’s Public Free Zone, INW offers flexibility to its customers a host of support services in a dedicated and professional manner. The company; maintains a fleet of 12 offshore support vessels including 2 DP2 vessels able to offer a range of marine services including anchor handling and towing, inspection, maintenance, well testing, and operations support.

Inside marine 167

INTERNATIONAL NAVAL WORKS

I PROFILE

Captain Ezz El Din further stated that

The company also owns and operates

within the next six months, the company

five ROVs. “We have some ROV contracts

intends to expand its fleet by one more

in Egypt,” Captain Ezz El Din explained:

vessel, which would support its operations

“most of them are call-out contracts,

in the Middle East.

where we do the job and come back,

INW offers a unique array of rope

whatever the duration; it could be two

access services, using specialised tech-

weeks or more. We have the majority of

niques to place workers from various dis-

our ROVs in Egypt and one in Saudi Arabia,

ciplines in hard-to-reach locations. The

also doing call-out jobs.”

company provides a practical, safe and cost-effective solution for a variety of

Excellence in diving

applications, such as maintenance,

INW has diving contracts operating

repair, surface preparation, painting and

in Egypt, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia and

inspection works.

Qatar. The company has a stated mission

“For a long time, we didn’t take rope access projects outside Egypt,” Captain Ezz El Din said. “We have our main contract here with bp in Alexandria, where we have a permanent team, and then we do other rope access jobs on a call-out basis.”

168 Inside marine

to provide respected and dependable commercial diving and marine services that adhere to industry standards in safety and compliance.

As a member of IMCA, the company can share and receive knowledge of safety and technical matters affecting the offshore, marine and underwater engineering industries. It is also a member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI), which serves as an industry forum in support of improving safety, education and communication throughout the commercial diving industry.

EIDS is the first diving school in Egypt to acquire a license from the Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety (EAMS), which

Diving School

is the approved governmental society for

INW runs the Egyptian International

commercial air diver certification.

Diving School (EIDS), which offers both commercial air diver training and recreational diving training, according to international standards. The former is certified by the International Diving Schools Association (IDSA), the latter by the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques (CMAS).

Inside marine 169

INTERNATIONAL NAVAL WORKS

I PROFILE

Investing in the future

Strong partnerships

“We understand that each client is unique,

INW regularly participates in international

so we have made major investments in

events like The Egypt Petroleum Show

renewing and developing our fleet, using

(EGYPS), the region’s largest oil, gas and

the latest technologies to meet our clients’

energy exhibition and conference. EGYPS

requirements,” Captain Ezz El Din explained,

provides a platform for businesses from

“In 2021, we converted INW-3 from an AHT

around the world to convene, boost

vessel into a well-testing vessel in less than

bilateral trade and discuss commerce

60 days.

and innovation.

"In August 2023, the company began a

The show also provides a good way for

five-year contract with ADNOC Logistics &

the company to network with current and

Services to perform topside maintenance

potential customers. INW prizes these

activities like blasting, inspection, external

strong business relationships, as it does

coating, piping and more at ADNOC’s off-

its supply chain.

shore oil fields Zakum and Umm Al Shaif in

“We consider our suppliers like partners,”

Abu Dhabi. The contract is being carried

said Captain Ezz El Din. “We always have

out using INW’s offshore support

good cooperation and close contact.

vessel INW-5.”

Sometimes we visit them and conduct

170 Inside marine

Vice Chairman Captain Mohamed Omar Ezz El Din

audits. Our main suppliers are for our engines, generators and gearboxes for vessels. And we have suppliers for our diving equipment.”

Going forward, INW will focus on further strengthening its reputation as an industry leader in the Middle East, opening new markets in the field of SPM services. A continued investment in its fleet will be the driving force behind the company’s work to ensure that both its diving and marine services offer worldclass services.

“In all operations, we aim to meet and

the best. “It really is my passion; I truly enjoy

exceed the expectations of our clients,”

delivering these services,” he concluded.

Captain Ezz El Din said. “We have a long

“especially the diving activities. I took my

track record with loyal customers and the

diving course in Fort William in Scotland; and

company’s goal is to continue to diversify

my father was a frogman. He worked in the

with a global footprint.”

Navy for a long time and then started this

For Captain Ezz El Din, continuing the work

company. To be continuing the same busi-

his father started is what drives him to be

ness and expanding it further is a privilege.”n

Inside marine 171

iM seven seas, five oceans, one voice

SHIPYARDS dredge yard

edr antwerp shipyard

nibulon ssy

eastern shipbuilding group

DREDGE YARD

I PROFILE

Concerned that dredging’s conventional cutting systems are disturbing the environment, Dutch innovator Dredge Yard is launching a revolutionary, high-efficiency alternative. “It’s a complete solution to environmentally friendly cutting,” said CEO Basel Yousef. Colin Chinery reports.

174 Inside marine

D

redging’s ecolog-

blade cutter head – will reduce spillage

ical good guy/bad

and turbidity, while increasing dredger

guy image is set to

productivity. In short – a complete solution

change to environmental saviour as leading innovator Dredge Yard

to high efficiency, environmentally friendly cutting.

begins rolling out a breakthrough technology. The Rotterdam headquartered

Founding goals

company designs, engineers, builds and

Innovation, along with client focus, fast

supplies small to medium-sized dredgers

turn round and flexibility, were founding

and dredge components with the aim of

principles when Mr Yousef co-founded

improving the current dredging process

the company back in 2010. Working for

and its environmental impact.

another dredging supplier, he had seen

“Our vision is to continuously improve and adapt to new technologies and

a widespread lack of flexibility and client-orientation.

methodologies to create dredging equip-

“And that’s extremely annoying since

ment that’s not only cost-effective, but

dredging needs customised operations,

also environmentally friendly,” said CEO

customised equipment,” he explained.

Basel Yousef.

“And to achieve that, clients need

Dredging’s benefits are well established – sediment and debris removal from rivers

a flexible, rapid-response supplier.

“We took off very quickly. Customers

and harbours for example, and land

started coming to us asking for cus-

reclamation and coastal protection. But

tomised equipment, and a way of

dredging is also on the environmental

doing things that was different from

hit list - pollution, contaminated soils,

what they had been getting from their

damaged fish spawning grounds and

established suppliers.

riverbank destabilisation.

In most dredging operations, spillage

“Basically, we were following standard customer needs. We didn't have the arro-

results in losing as much as 80% of cut

gance to tell them, ‘this is the way you

material. But Dredge Yard’s latest inno-

do it.’ So, we won more and more orders

vation – the Cutting System - a unique

and we haven’t been still since. And with

and game-changing electric closed

offices in the Netherlands and United

Inside marine 175

DREDGE YARD

I PROFILE

CT SYSTEMS CT Systems BV is proud to supply Dredge Yard with GeoDredge, a turnkey all-in-one 3D positioning system. The GeoDredge has internal RTK GPS, high-speed internet and runs the Viking Dredging software on an internal PC. All sensors are directly interfaced with the GeoDredge on a communication bus.

editorial mention

176 Inside marine

In-house powerhouse A standard dredge line exists of a portfolio of six auger and cutter dredges that can operate at several different depths; each assembled and tested in-house at the Rotterdam facility or with on-location engineers.

Arab Emirates, we are

These are backed by strong technical

well-positioned to serve

client support, including maintenance

customers around the world.

“Our great team of engineers in Dubai and The Netherlands were part of Dredge Yard from the

and crew training. Beside those dredgers, customised dredgers are supplied in co-operation with different yards worldwide. For components,

very beginning, and are available to

a wide range of products in standard

work anywhere from the Middle East

type or customised are delivered, such

and Asia to Africa.”

as dredge pumps, ball joints, valves

End use applications range from

and cutters.

canal sand channels, marinas, harbours,

“We are committed to promoting

reservoirs and industrial settling ponds,

safety, and we do our best to ensure

to environmental and mine tailing removal

safety for those who will be operating

and dredging.

our dredgers,” Mr Yousef said. “Our

Among worldwide projects was the

engineers are involved in the entire

delivery of a customised Eco 200 electric

tailor-made process; from the moment

cutter suction dredger for chloride brine

a customer comes with a first inquiry

mining in Canada and a multipurpose cutter

right up to commissioning and production.”

suction dredger 400 for improving water

If quality control is central to the Dredge

quality in a water dam in Hungary. Dredge

Yard methodology, so too is competitive

Yard is also currently building a cutter suc-

pricing, according to Mr Yousef: “We

tion dredger 650 for central Asia and Cutter

understand that cost is a major consider-

suction dredger 450 for Africa.

ation when purchasing new equipment,

Inside marine 177

DREDGE YARD

I PROFILE

and we strive to offer our customers the

“One of the

best possible value for their investment

major issues is that

at the most competitive price possible.”

they spill a lot of material, and so five years ago

Electric close blade cutterhead

we began developing what is

The new cutter emerged over years of

now the new, patented system:

intensive engineering, FEM and computer

the electric closed blade.”

simulation. The full-scale model prototype

By combining the close blades

was launched two years ago, followed by

with a hollow shaft and an electric ring

further on-going testing.

motor, the result is a state-of-the-art

Dredge Yard’s CEO described the back-

cutter, offering, as Mr Yousef described:

ground: “Sometime after our formation,

“a complete solution to environmentally

we thought we should come up with

friendly cutting.”

something to improve dredging. We inves-

Now the first two units of the system –

tigated the dredging market and noted

which can be used with any type of dredger

that the conventional cutting systems

and retrofitted to existing dredgers – are

were working inefficiently and disturbing

scheduled for delivery to a USA customer

the environment.

by the end of this year.

178 Inside marine

CE O

Ba lY se

f se ou

Greener dredging “Dredge Yard strives for a greener future where dredging will not cause any negative impacts on the nature and its inhabitants,” said Mr Yousef. “As a result, we are

gestion that it is engaged in a competitive sprint: “We don't see ourselves in race with others. In fact, we want to engage in cooperation with others, even competitors, to improve dredging and minimise its impact on the environment.

constantly researching the newest

“The new electric close blades cutter

technologies in order to design and

is our patent, but we will be offering this

engineer more efficient, greener

widely across the market and we are

dredging solutions.”

open to work with any other company

Next year should see the new electric

or competitor to support the environment.

cutter showcasing at events. But ortho-

“Dredging is an activity unique to its

doxy and convention run deep in the

environment, from soil types to weather

dredging sector, and Mr Yousef concedes

and hydrographical conditions. Therefore,

that many operators are likely to wait

we believe that every project requires

for it to become more operational before

a different solution, and we are here to

committing themselves.

adapt to it.

“We have customers who are extremely

“We have a vision of a dredging

interested, and we are talking to some

industry, which offers a safe, healthy,

with the aim of implementing this

accident-free workplace,” Mr Yousef

technology,” he explained.

concluded, “improving the environment

“Unfortunately, our market is rather con-

and living standards, and without

servative, and in the main they want to

causing harm to the surrounding

see it more in the market before they

habitats and nature.

adopt it.”

If Dredge Yard is an industry front runner, Mr Yousef dismissed any sug-

“We need to make progress, move forward and work together to improve this industry.”

n Inside marine 179

EDR ANTWERP SHIPYARD

180 Inside marine

I PROFILE

With over 20 years’ experience, EDR Antwerp Shipyard is a highquality shipyard focused on repairs, maintenance and retrofitting.

Commercial Manager Philippe Trouillard shared the latest news and the importance of the shipyard’s location, in conversation with Phil Nicholls.

T

he highly experienced team at EDR Antwerp Shipyard is dedicated to delivering a full-service shipyard in

the heart of Europe. The extensive portfolio of services is conveniently available to clients at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of Europe’s largest ports and the world leader in the import and export of Ro-Ro cargo.

“Recently new IMO regulations came into effect, with EEXI one of the leading deciding factors to execute a modification or conversion project,” Commercial Manager Philippe Trouillard explained. “If we think further, it only makes sense from a ship-lifecycle management point of view to perform these works where the vessel is located, near the cargo port. This reduces the economic downtime of the vessel.”

Established in the late ‘90s as Engine Deck Repair NV with a small repair shop in Antwerp, EDR has steadily expanded. In 2015, EDR acquired ownership and management of the shipyard at Quay 403 in the centre of what is now known as the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Today, EDR has a state-of-the art office building to accommodate employees and clients, while the renovations of its

Inside marine 181

EDR ANTWERP SHIPYARD

I PROFILE

second largest drydock are ongoing. All of

and 80,000 square metres of open

these developments are part of EDR’s aim

project area, we can deliver a seamless

to be the leading modern ship repair and

project flow.”

conversion shipyard in Europe by 2025.

Within these impressive facilities, EDR manages every type of shipyard activity,

An ideal location

from emergency dockings to special

EDR Antwerp Shipyard owns and

surveys, conversion projects and ship-

manages one of the largest drydocks in

building. The company is an expert in

Europe, at 312m long, 52m wide and 8.5m

turnkey projects such as ballast water

deep. The company’s two larger docks

treatment plants, scrubber installations,

are both serviced by cranes with 100

propeller retrofits and many more.

tonnes lifting capacity. With four

The spare parts department at EDR bene-

engraved drydocks and 2,500m of quays,

fits from a fully bonded shipyard area and

EDR offers full service for any ship repair

utilises its fleet of trucks, semis and deep

and conversion project.

loaders to transport all the equipment

“Our workshops total 14,000 square

and tools. Worldwide transportation is

metres,” said Mr Trouillard. “They have

facilitated in partnership with a network

been renewed and expanded, including

of high-quality freight forwarders.

a high-tech detail blasting unit and tur-

The location within the Port of Antwerp-

bocharger department. With over 18,000

Bruges remains a key component for the

square metres of covered warehousing

delivery of EDR’s services, according to

182 Inside marine

Mr Trouillard: “Antwerp also has the least

efficiency and precision in ship repair

amount of weather delays compared

and maintenance.

with other more northern shipyards.”

“Every day, sustainability and technical developments are not far away,”

Precision projects

Mr Trouillard explained. “In a changing

To maintain the high standard of its

industry, we are carefully testing several

services, EDR has integrated cutting-

new options. For example, we are exploring

edge technological advancements into

the field of semi-automated hull treatment

its operations. This has enhanced its

dust captivation and noise reduction.

Inside marine 183

EDR ANTWERP SHIPYARD

I PROFILE

“The way vessels are surveyed is also

including BWTS installation. We completed

rapidly changing with the introduction

the project within 13 days when the vessel

of drones, and the use of augmented

was empty. This achievement has set

reality to assist technical managers is

high expectations throughout the con-

not far away. Further investigations are

tainer shipping market.

underway in the field of cold ironing whilst

“Also, owners and managers of Ro-Ro

vessels stay in a shipyard. Finally, we are

vessels easily find their way to our facilities,

also exploring projects regarding 3D

where we can open all the ramps and

metal printing.”

simultaneously work in, on and outside

With over 500 requests per year for

of the vessel.”

quotations, EDR executes an average of 150 projects at its premises (drydock and layby

A new green shipyard

repair berth), including approximately 60

EDR is the largest investor in Belgium’s

dockings per annum. The team of 180 FTE

maritime industry. This is part of EDR’s

and 350 dedicated subcontractors

programme to maintain the quality of

deliver a client satisfaction rate of over

its facilities. The old office building was

85%. Indeed, more than 45% of EDR’s

recently replaced by energy-efficient

clients return for multiple services.

premises. Dock 5 has had a complete

Despite such a wide range of projects,

concrete renewal and EDR is investing

Mr Trouillard picked out a highlight: “At our

in frequency-driven pumps, LED lighting

shipyard, we follow the economics of the

and solar panels.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges, meaning that our

“Personally, the most iconic statement

largest and most successful projects are

our investments have made is the rebuild

on board container vessels, car carriers,

of the old 60 tonne travelling crane at

tankers and bulk carriers.

Dock 5,” Mr Trouillard explained. “This

“For example, EDR executed a special package on one particular vessel,

184 Inside marine

crane was neglected and out of use, but is now restored to fully functioning glory.

There aren’t that may shipyards in Europe

our already famous Belgian Beer Night

who are investing in rebuilding and

on the 9th of November 2023. Find us at

restoring shipyard facilities.”

booth 3010!”

To further its sustainable investments,

Looking ahead, EDR aims to become

EDR is working with Green Shipyard. This

the market leader in ship repair and

new organisation works to improve the

conversion. The shipyard is a reliable

sustainability of shipyards in Europe. Green

partner with significant room for growth

Shipyard produces a significant list of KPIs

each year, and established win-win

so that each shipyard can obtain ratings

relationships with clients. These goals

regarding sustainability. On the back of this

can only be achieved by maintaining

information, EDR is exploring significant

clear and transparent communication

energy reduction projects and the possi-

with clients and delivering tightly bud-

bility of investing in wind turbines.

geted projects.

EDR wants to stand as an example

The friendly shipyard

for Europe, regarding sustainable and

“Along with the rebuild of the shipyards’

environmental leadership. This is clearly

infrastructure, we have had to reposition

a fascinating time to be working at EDR,

the activities of EDR and emphasise our

as Mr Trouillard made clear in his conclu-

existence as a transparent, high-quality

sion: “Working at EDR is to be working

shipyard in the heart of Europe,”

with colleagues who become good

Mr Trouillard continued. “Trade exhibi-

friends, almost family. There is a high

tions such as Europort 2023 are the

level of trust in the company and within

perfect way to combine all the above,

the management.

accompanied by a nice beer or two.

“Even with the most modern

“This year, we are looking forward to

machinery on site, the work here is done

welcoming many old and new friends

by great people, and that is what EDR is

at Europort again, and especially during

all about.”

n Inside marine 185

NIBULON SSY

I PROFILE

Over the last year, NIBULON SSY has experienced tragedy, hardship and tumultuous times. Despite this challenging period, the shipyard remains strong in its dedication to the restoration of Ukraine’s maritime status. Speaking to Inside Marine, Director of the shipyard Bohdan Muzyka explained how this is being achieved and exactly how others can help. Report by Imogen Ward.

186 Inside marine

“We lost eight orders that were worth more than $10 million as a result of the blockage, and we had no choice but to

S

ince the yard was first

begin searching for alternative avenues.”

established, NIBULON

Included in this was the employees’

SSY has built a solid

reorientation for the construction of grain

reputation of quality and relia-

infrastructure facilities. In particular, in

bility, from its work with river

2022 the yard's employees were involved

navigation to the construction

in the construction of a new transhipment

of its Mykolaiv export fleet. Now,

terminal for a Ukrainian grain exporter.

with the ports of Mykolaiv blocked,

This was built in Izmail,

NIBULON SSY has had to change

one of the ports on the Danube River.

tactics to continue to support the

Construction first began on this project

restoration of Ukraine’s renowned

in June last year, with the intention of

maritime status.

shipping around 300,000 tonnes of

“When the war first began, our number

grain to Europe every month once com-

one priority was to ensure our workers

plete. The terminal will also play a key

were all safe,” Director of the shipyard

role in helping to stabilise the future of

Bohdan Muzyka said. “Once that was con-

grain farmers.

firmed, we then had to find a way to ensure

Following the construction of the

they had work. We specialised in servicing

terminal in Izmail, two push tugs which

the fleet of Ukraine’s inland waterways,

were built by NIBULON SSY were dismantled

and when the Mykolaiv ports were blocked,

by SSY, and reassembled after transporta-

almost 1,000 NIBULON SSY employees were

tion to Izmail terminal by SSY specialists

left without work overnight.

last year.

Inside marine 187

NIBULON SSY

188 Inside marine

I PROFILE

A look back over recent years

all-aluminium hull. Last year, however, the

Before the war began, NIBULON SSY was

yard stopped work after its shipbuilding

heavily focused on its long-term goal of

activities temporarily ground to a halt.

supporting river navigation in Ukraine.

To accomplish this, the shipyard sought to

Restoring a maritime status

connect the country’s river transhipment

Following a year of uncertainty, NIBULON

terminals by constructing a fleet of vessels.

SSY recently made the courageous deci-

“Since 2018, we have built 10 vessels for

sion to resume processing aluminium for

use in this restoration programme,”said

shipbuilding. Currently, as the only

Mr Muzyka. “We have also produced one

Ukrainian yard with aluminium processing

self-propelled floating crane, which was

capabilities, NIBULON SSY is geared up

one of the largest cranes within the

and ready to aid in the restoration of

middle sea region. This was successfully

the country’s maritime status.

transferred to our shipping company at the end of 2019.”

By reinstating this service, the shipyard been able to complete a crucial project

During this period, NIBULON SSY also

has together with the State Emergency

began constructing vessels for other

Service, NIBULON SSY has constructed

companies as well as for the benefit of

a vessel that is capable of demining

Ukraine. The yard also invested in its facili-

Ukraine’s inland waterways.

ties, with the purchase of new cranes and

“The DSNS 25 project is crucial for the

the renovation of its construction yard.

State Emergency Service because the

New aluminium processing facilities

Black and Azov seas and associated rivers

were also built to support the expansion

are currently blocked with unexploded

of its capabilities. Prior to the war, NIBULON

mines,” said Mr Muzyka. “As this is a new

SSY achieved the processing of around

challenge for our country, the SES does not

10,000 tonnes of steel per year. Also, this

currently have the equipment or facilities

facility started building a vessel with an

needed to proceed with demining.”

Inside marine 189

NIBULON SSY

I PROFILE

NIBULON SSY generously self-funded

explained. “The international community

the construction of this vessel, to aid in

can really make a difference in recuper-

demining almost 16,000 square kilome-

ating our waterways if they order these

tres of water. However, the SES predicts

vessels and donate them to the SES.

that a further 14 vessels will be needed

They can also help by investing.

to effectively clear the waters.

“Placing special orders for these ves-

“The first vessel was successfully com-

sels will really help make the waterways

pleted in August, however; due to a lack

safe for the export and import of goods

of funding, our State cannot afford to

within Ukraine.”

order the remainder of the much-needed craft,” Mr Muzyka said.

On the topic of international support, Mr Muzyka expressed sincere gratitude for the aid that Ukraine has already

Aid during hardship

received: “We are extremely grateful

For this fleet to be plausible, Ukraine and

for all the international support we

NIBULON SSY are relying on the support

receive. It really makes all the differ-

of international communities.

ence. With this help, we believe that

“We need international communities to offer aid in this time of hardship,” Mr Muzyka

190 Inside marine

NIBULON SSY and the State can work together to kickstart shipbuilding within Ukraine once again.”

NIBULON SSY is the perfect choice for the DSNS 25 project. Having constructed its own cargo fleet from the ground up, it is highly experienced in both the construction and repair of vessels. The yard also has a hard-working and supportive

According to Mr Muzyka, being a part

team of skilled employees who are well-

of NIBULON SSY is special for several

versed in the construction of newbuilds.

reasons: “To be one of the most active

NIBULON SSY hopes, with the support

and modern yards within Ukraine is a

garnered, that it will be able to construct

huge responsibility. Mykolaiv is a city

the entire fleet within a three-year period.

rich in maritime history and develop-

Upholding several ISO certifications

ment, and we are honoured to be a small

(including ISO 9001:2015), NIBULON SSY

part of that. Although the responsibility

ensures high building standards and

is heavy, it also excites and inspires

technical processes. Thanks to these

us every day.

certifications, the shipyard has been able

“It’s also amazing to see a sheet of

to successfully expand its services and

metal transformed into a huge floating

capabilities whilst increasing efficiency

vessel before your eyes,” he concluded.

at all stages of production. This increased

“When something so simple is changed

efficiency will be crucial, to ensure that

into something so complicated, it really

NIBULON’s three-year target is met.

proves that anything is possible.”

n

Inside marine 191

EASTERN SHIPBUILDING GROUP

I PROFILE

READY SHIPYAR Established in 1976, Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) specializes in high quality steel and aluminum vessel construction, alongside all aspects of steel fabrication. Report by Phil Nicholls.

NO

single person is responsible for the success of Eastern Shipbuilding Group. It takes

a team to forge the enviable position ESG enjoys in the marine construction industry today. Many of the key superintendents running the shipyard have been employed at Eastern over 15 years.

The management team combined have over 400 years of experience in the shipbuilding industry. In addition, the owner and members of the management team are on site daily, which allows them to be personally involved in every aspect of each vessel’s construction.

A trio of shipyards ESG currently operates three shipyards on the Florida Gulf Coast. At each facility, conventional assembly methods as well as modular construction techniques are supported, making them some of the most modern and efficient operations in the country.

192 Inside marine

RD

Inside marine 193

EASTERN SHIPBUILDING GROUP

I PROFILE

The 40-acre Nelson Street facility in

warehouse space. The shipyard features

Panama City, Florida, doubles as the

seven crawler cranes ranging from 45 to

operational headquarters. Nelson Street

400 ton lifting capacity. Nelson Street is also

is dedicated to the United States Coast

equipped with two marine railways, 700

Guard Offshore Patrol Cutter program.

linear feet of steel bulk-headed side launch

The site sits on 24 acres and has over

capability, and a mechanic shop, along with

2,000 feet of water frontage leading

shipping and receiving buildings.

into St. Andrew’s Bay and out to the Gulf of Mexico.

ESG’s 300-acre Allanton Road Shipyard has an 1,800 linear feet basin seawall and

Adjacent to the shipyard is a six acre fabri-

has over 6,000 feet of water frontage that

cation facility where much of the modular

also leads into St. Andrew’s Bay. A work-

pre-fabrication is performed. The fabrication

shop of 32,000 square feet houses the

yard consists of 22,300 square feet of

steel processing equipment, including a

194 Inside marine

Wheelabrator automated horizontal shot blasting and painting machine for plate and structural members, in addition to three 10-ton overhead cranes.

Further down the coast, the newer Port Saint Joe facility, encompasses 40 acres and 1,000ft of deepwater bulkhead with unrestricted access to the Gulf of Mexico.

At this site, ESG is expanding into vessel sustainment for both commercial and government customers.

A broad portfolio Today’s modern vessels are highly sophisticated and represent a much higher risk profile for a ship owner when it comes to selecting the right shipyard. ESG’s proven track record of successfully engineering and building these large and complex ships on time and on budget dramatically reduces that risk. As one of the top tier two shipyards in the United States, Eastern Shipbuilding Group is the reliable partner to trust for delivery of a vessel on time, every time.

With commercial operations focused on the Allanton Shipyard, ESG produce a wide range of vessels. This portfolio includes tugs, towboats and fishing vessels, as well as Offshore Supply Vessels.

ESG’s work with ferries is a notable area, with the yard completing the iconic Staten Island ferry SSG Michael H. Hollis. This design was awarded Boat of the Year by Workboat, Distinctive Vessel of 2021 by Marine Log, and Work Boat World’s Best Large Ferry for 2021.

The new ferries are larger, reflect modern technology, and will operate more safely in extreme weather conditions.

Inside marine 195

EASTERN SHIPBUILDING GROUP

I PROFILE

They feature popular design elements

to 2024, and an additional 19,600 jobs

of past Staten Island Ferries and new

from 2025 to 2035 if all vessels are

customer service amenities such as more

constructed. Impacts from this job

comfortable seating and phone charging

creation will be felt throughout Florida

outlets and an oval upper deck prome-

and across the U.S.

nade that will for the first time serve as

Furthermore, ESG has been contracted by

an outdoor ‘walking track’ for ferry riders.

the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to design

These vessels also have the latest in

and construct a new medium class hopper

marine technology for energy efficiency

dredge for the Department of Defense. The

and environmental friendliness.

company received formal notice to pro-

Turning to ESG’s work for the U.S. govern-

ceed in August 2023. The dredge will be

ment, the Coast Guard awarded detail

constructed at Eastern’s Allanton and

design for the Offshore Patrol Cutter to

Port St. Joe facilities and is scheduled for

ESG on September 15, 2016. Long Lead Time

delivery in 2027.

Materials was awarded in September 2017.

Construction began in fiscal year 2018.

A company that cares

The contract includes options for produc-

Eastern is currently one of the largest

tion of up to four vessels. The U.S. Coast

employers in Bay County, Florida. The com-

Guard plans to acquire a total of 25

pany is committed to taking care of the

Offshore Patrol Cutters.

local community.

According to recent studies, spending

ESG CEO and Chairman Joey D’Isernia

because of this Coast Guard contract

is a board member of the Gulf Coast

will be responsible for 10,300 direct,

Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees.

indirect, and induced jobs from 2016

Mr D’Isernia volunteers his time to support

196 Inside marine

one of the area’s two hospitals that is a

and opportunities for students far

key asset to the surrounding community

and wide across Bay County. For

and its citizens.

example, the company has supported

Meanwhile. the Eastern Shipbuilding Group

the Thomas P. Haney Foundation and

Charity Golf Tournament has consistently

has a strong track record of hiring

raised funds for local charities over the last

skilled graduates from the Haney

22 years. This event draws vendors and

Technical Center welding program

suppliers from around the country and raises

and the pipefitting program.

funds to help local initiatives in Bay County.

In 2021, Eastern Shipbuilding Group was

This dedication to being a caring

proud to support the opening of a brand

company also applies to supporting

new welding facility at Rutherford High

education. ESG is commited to training

School in Panama City, Florida.

n

Inside marine 197

iM seven seas, five oceans, one voice

ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING weka marine

econowind

vdr marine equipment

degra

verhoef

ultraguard antifouling

WEKA MARINE

200 Inside marine

I PROFILE

With a diverse range of coolers and heat exchangers, Weka Marine delivers well-integrated cooling solutions for inland waterways and seagoing vessels. Amongst its innovative marine products, the copper-nickel boxcooler is the company’s flagship product. Hannah Barnett spoke to MD Cor de Kwant and Sales Manager Danny Caffa to learn more. eka Marine was established

W

Cor de Kwant. “A customer tells us the

with the ethos that technolog-

vessel they have and the sea it will sail

ical advancements could push

in, including the temperature and so on.

the marine industry forward. Though best

Then, we provide them with a solution:

known for its copper-nickel boxcooler,

we think with the customer.”

the company offers a complete portfolio of innovative cooling products used in

A family firm

different applications worldwide.

Weka Marine was established in 1957

“Boxcoolers are our core business,

to offer reliable on-demand services to

unlike other manufacturers who might

marine companies cruising the IJssel in

offer them as a side product,” said MD

the Netherlands. The factory was located

Inside marine 201

WEKA MARINE

I PROFILE

near the river, so vessels could be

But it is the copper-nickel boxcooler that

serviced quickly and effectively.

has become Weka’s flagship product. It is

In 1980, the first Weka boxcooler

crafted with 90/10 copper-nickel tubing,

was installed, commencing the start of

an alloy that was selected based on its

a new era of smart cooling solutions. The

durability, heat exchange abilities, resis-

company now has 16 employees in the

tance to saltwater corrosion and natural

Netherlands and 40 in the United States,

marine growth protection.

but it remains a family business.

“My grandfather, Mr de Kwant,

Copper alloys possess an inherent resistance to biofouling, meaning the high

started Weka Marine in 1957 alongside

copper content of the tubing has a nat-

Mr Westbroek,” Mr de Kwant said. “That’s

ural anti-fouling capability and protects

why it’s called Weka. It’s a combination

against marine growth. “I always make

of both names.”

the comparison with church roofs, where the copper becomes green,” Mr de

The signature product

Kwant explained. “That’s what our

The boxcooler was introduced by Mr

boxcooler does when it’s been installed

de Kwant’s grandfather alongside three

onboard the ship. It’s underneath the

employees, most of whom have family

sea line and submerged in the water.

ties to Weka’s current workforce. Initially,

Copper-nickel creates a green layer.

the company produced steel boxcooler;

And the green layer creates the natural

a line it still maintains, with most pumping

anti-fouling capability.”

stations in the Netherlands using them for cooling.

202 Inside marine

“It’s our unique selling point,” said Sales Director Danny Caffa: “What you see in the

market now is manufacturers trying to

who are likely to take the total cost of

protect boxcoolers with ICAF systems

ownership into account, as opposed to

or ultrasound to prevent bio-growth,

shipyards, which may be in the market

but our boxcooler does it naturally.”

for or cheaper, quick-fix solutions.

Flexibility is one of Weka’s distinctive

“Our Copper-Nickel Boxcoolers are

qualities, meaning the company does not

a little bit more expensive than what the

only produce copper-nickel coolers, but

market delivers at the moment,” Mr Caffa

also Weka’s original steel cooler and alu-

said: “but if you look at total cost of own-

minium-brass coated boxcoolers, like the

ership, we are the cheapest in the world.

other boxcooler manufacturers. “We have

A Weka Copper-Nickel boxcooler easily

a cooling system for each application in

pays off before a ship’s first docking, and

the maritime industry, which makes us

within five years, you earn back the ROI.”

stand out in the market,” Mr Caffa said.

“If a ship is travelling around the Arctic, it

Marine green

doesn’t need anti-biofilm protection, but

Another significant facet of the copper-

if it goes to Brazil or Spain, then it needs it.”

nickel boxcooler is that, as opposed to

This adaptability makes Weka’s high-

an ICAF system, it is and always has been

quality products ideal for ship owners,

an environmentally friendly option. “Weka

Inside marine 203

WEKA MARINE

I PROFILE

has been providing a green solution

95% of the boxcooler’s parts can

since the 1980s because of the copper-

also be recycled or reused. This is in accor-

nickel boxcooler,” Mr De Kwant said.

dance with the Weka Marine Environment

ICAF systems protect from marine

programme, which encourages the

growth using a copper bar that dis-

company and its partners to explore

solves in the water, depositing copper

the potential of the circular economy.

ions in the sea and accumulating signifi-

“We can give those old coolers back to

cant amounts over time. “It’s toxic,”

our suppliers, as well as use them for new

Mr de Kwant added. “That doesn’t

products,” said Mr de Kwant, “especially

happen with our copper-nickel boxcooler;

because copper and other materials are

it only creates the green layer on top. We

becoming rare. The more we recycle, the

are not dumping copper into the sea.”

easier it becomes to use parts again.”

204 Inside marine

In recognition of these sustainable

and the company is set to launch a new

attributes, three years ago, the company

series of products based on pillow plates.

received a green award.

“These are plates with a dimple in them for cooling and heating purposes,” Mr de

A company like no other

Kwant explained. “We already supplied

The copper-nickel boxcooler is a largely

a couple of these units for heating oil in

maintenance-free solution, only requiring

cargo holds. We’re promoting pillow

pressure washing. To maintain the unique

plates, along with our new website, logo

quality of the product, Weka invented the

and company rebrand at Europort in

Weka Guard and Weka Protector, which

Rotterdam in November.”

protects boxcoolers from any adverse

At Weka, a thorough familiarity with the

reactions with other materials on the ship.

products being sold goes hand-in-hand

“The most important thing is that the installation is done correctly,” Mr de

with a robust and happy workforce.

“We have a good vibe in our office; you

Kwant said. “If you follow our installation

can really feel it,” Mr de Kwant concluded.

instructions, you have no short- or long-

“It’s very important. We are a small team,

term issues. That’s why most of our

but everybody in the office can build

customers with copper-nickel boxcoolers

a cooler. And if there is overtime that

do not want anything else.”

needs doing or a customer asks for

As well as continuing to develop its

a challenging delivery deadline, then

signature product, Weka is set to enlarge

everybody in the office will join in to build

its portfolio. The R&D department responds

the cooler. We roll up our sleeves and do it

quickly to new developments in the market,

together. It can be a lot of fun.”

n

Inside marine 205

ECONOWIND

I PROFILE

As the energy transition debate swirls across the marine industry, eConowind has quietly ramped up production to meet demand for its wind-assisted ship propulsion solutions. Now embarking on its third generation flexible, vertical ‘wing’ that converts wind into extra thrust, the company is eagerly addressing a sizeable order book. CEO Frank Nieuwenhuis explained to Andy Probert why wind power innovations on vessels are here to stay.

206 Inside marine

iding the fair winds of fortune,

R

as the industry seeks more sustainable

business at eConowind is booming.

options in energy transition. eConowind is

However, CEO Frank Nieuwenhuis

now building momentum, with orders for

offered more down-to-earth reasons:

40 VentoFoil systems for installation on

“Hard work, self-belief and an industry

bulk carriers and chemical tankers.

playing catch-up in realising the effectiveness and power of wind: it has all

Company evolution

placed us at a distinct advantage.”

E stablished in 2018 between HCP and

Central to eConowind is its VentoFoil con-

Conoship International, a ship design

cept: a flexible, vertical ‘wing’ that converts

and engineering office in Groningen,

wind into extra thrust. The system utilises

The Netherlands, eConowind was initially

modern innovations in aerodynamics to

supported by an EU subsidy and funding

create a high propelling force relative to its

from three Dutch counties. Engineer

size. Smart suction is integrated into the

Mr Nieuwenhuis built the first two sys-

wing, doubling the VentoFoil’s force. The

tems himself. Following positive results

system can be installed either as a fixed or containerised model, as a retrofit or on newbuild vessels.

With the IMO developing international regulations to achieve a 40% CO2 reduction by 2030, eConowind perfectly contributes to this as VentoFoils can help ships save up to 15% on annual fuel consumption.

The innovation has caught the attention of shipping companies and policymakers

Inside marine 207

ECONOWIND

I PROFILE

on two test ships, production is now

Four Dutch shipowners, including Boomsma

handled at the company’s manufacturing

Shipping and Van Dam Shipping, worked with

unit, employing 28 people.

eConowind on the first VentoFoil generation,

The VentoFoil is now on its third iteration,

and helped hone later adaptations.

with the first concept being located in a

eConowind has developed fixed, retrofit

container. The wing was then enlarged

and containerised models for vessels. The

before the system was upgraded 18

Flatrack VentoFoil unit is based on ISO-fix

months ago for production and simplicity

corners and can quickly be placed and

reasons. The VentoFoil can be rotated

removed. The system can be moved with

automatically to find optimal angles

the vessel’s hatch crane, and no additional

relative to the apparent wind.

harbour equipment is needed to move it.

“Our inspiration originated with Jacques

Each Flatrack can be adjusted to the

Cousteau,” Mr Nieuwenhuis explained. “In

size of the vessel. The units can be folded

the 1980s. He proved a traditional sail made

and locked onto the Flatrack in heavy or

into an aeroplane wing, and utilising suc-

unfavourable wind conditions. All equip-

tion, could help improve thrust with aerody-

ment, such as hydraulics, automation

namics. You can use a smaller footprint to

and ventilation, are integrated into the

get the same amount of force. He never got

unit. The only support of the vessel to the

to a physical concept due to the low price

unit is a 400-460V, three-phase, 50-

of oil and the abundance of fossil fuels.”

60Hz power connection.

208 Inside marine

regardless of whether a vessel runs on traditional or green fuels. It can boost renewable fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, methanol and electricity.

Wind-assisted propulsion on existing vessels reduces CO2 emissions and brings significant fuel and cost savings.

“With VentoFoils, shipowners can profitably reduce CO2. Users see a positive contribution immediately after installation, which can be completed in hours.”

Early adopters of VentoFoils have nothing but positive feedback. Johan Boomsma of Boomsma Shipping said: “Energy efficiency is critical for us, so we are always open to The advantage of fixing the VentoFoil

new developments. I think three key factors

units to a vessel is the possibility of using

– unit cost, fuel prices and EU ETS legislation

bigger foils. These can produce much

– are converging, so wind-assisted propul-

greater forward force and fuel savings.

sion will soon become a standard solution.

In contrast, the containerised unit is based

“eConowind’s system is making a

on a 40ft sea container and can quickly be

significant contribution to reducing ship-

stowed when not used.

ping emissions. Their proven, affordable system is easy to use; with the push of

Sustainable journey

a button, you can deploy and lower the

In 2024, the EU Emissions Trading System,

sails again.”

a cornerstone of its policy to combat climate change, will launch a CO2 tax to cover maritime transport emissions. It has become essential for ship owners to accelerate their green transformation, and eConowind is well-positioned to offer a viable option.

“Wind is an inexhaustible and free source of energy,” Mr Nieuwenhuis said: “VentoFoil systems can be deployed

Inside marine 209

ECONOWIND

I PROFILE

eConowind secured its first fleet

and chemical tankers. Several shipping

order from Dutch shipper Vertom to install

companies have closely followed the inno-

VentoFoil units as retrofits on three general

vation and ordered VentoFoils. These will be

cargo vessels.

for both retrofits and new builds.

“We are delighted to add Vertom,”

“With increased production capacity,

Mr Nieuwenhuis said. “The more installations

we can serve the market even better. We

we can retrofit, the more data we can attain

continue developing as a scale-up, and

and learn from. This provides solid proof

advanced discussions are ongoing with

about how wind-assisted ship propulsion

several investors.

reduces emissions per nautical mile and

“Most orders are from family-owned

improves vessel efficiency standards.”

shipping companies, but bigger companies are realising the need to act. One order

Powering ahead

is from a Finnish company; another is for

In 2023, eConowind has constructed eight

Japan’s container specialist, Ocean Network

wings for new clients. “There is momentum,

Express, and there is an order for four units

and our order pipeline is well-stocked,”

for a chemical tanker with a Dutch owner.”

Mr Nieuwenhuis continued. “We have 40

A significant step was achieved with

units on order through 2025 for bulk carriers

Sweden’s Terntank placing an order for 12 VentoFoil systems for three new 15,000 dwt chemical, product and biofuel tankers that China’s CMHI Jinling Shipyard is building.

‘While the Terntank order is aimed at 2025,” Mr Nieuwenhuis said, “we are in

210 Inside marine

Econowind CEO, Frank Nieuwenhuis

serious discussions with many other shipping companies and expect to see more orders coming forward in 2024. The timing for eConowind has been relatively good, as the market wasn’t there when we started, but now it has taken off.

“I am excited to be able to contribute a sustainable solution for the industry.”

The company is working with other partners to increase the systems’ standard 16m height to 30m for bigger vessels. “We intend to grow as the market grows and shipping realises wind-assisted propulsion is a crucial function,” Mr Nieuwenhuis said in conclusion.

“Data collected from our wings have shown they are a proven tool for helping ship owners save on costs and lessen carbon emissions. eConowind’s systems can be part of that decarbonisation journey, and I have no doubt we will have a major impact.”

n

Inside marine 211

DEGRA

I PROFILE

Operating for the past 46 years, DEGRA has been involved with the offshore industry since 2008. Keen to retain the ethos of Founders Jan-Piet and Jannie de Graaf, the company has continued to provide a complete and cost-effective service that does not impact the planet. Co-owner & Director of Operations Christien de Graaf and UK Sales Manager Damian Colgan explained more, in an exclusive interview with Inside Marine. Report by Imogen Ward.

212 Inside marine

I

nitially building small winches from

Family-founded, future-focused

a shed in the back garden, DEGRA’s

With a need for growth, the company

capabilities began to grow as its

acquired a new facility in Numansdorp,

customers’ needs evolved.

“When the offshore market began to rise in 2008, we received larger order requests,

The Netherlands, which led to the addition of a new workforce of 27 talented people.

“When our father ran the business,

and we were happy to oblige,” Co-owner &

he preferred to work alone,” Ms de Graaf

Director of Operations Christien de Graaf

explained. “When we took on the business,

said: “but with that commitment came

we thought we would have the same

a need for bigger facilities as well.

vision, but we quickly realised that our suc-

“Up until that point, the company was

cess would be bolstered by a dedicated

based out of the shed behind our house.

workforce. And our father was incredibly

That’s where my mother and father had

supportive of this vision and the directions

their workshop. We cherish that memory

that we were taking the business in. He

very much, and it allowed us to grow up surrounded by the business. After my father became ill, my siblings and I had to chip in to help; that’s really when our presence within the business developed.”

“DEGRA is a complete solution provider; from concept and design to sourcing, testing and commissioning,” said UK Sales Manager Damian Colgan. “That’s quite unique, especially when you factor in the recent addition of Hydro-CAN.”

Inside marine 213

DEGRA

I PROFILE

believed in our desire to grow the business, and that’s exactly what we did.”

DEGRA’s first employee still works at the company today, and that is thanks to the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the entire de Graaf family – one

A sustainable service

which is extended to the company’s

As a company, DEGRA is built on a founda-

suppliers as well.

tion of fundamental philosophies developed

“Suppliers are a hugely important element of the business, and our relationship with

by Mr de Graaf. Included in this is the desire to be sustainable.

our own chain is what makes us special,”

“It was a way of life for my father, and he

said Ms de Graaf. “That chain was built and

incorporated that into the business when

nurtured over the past 45 years by my

he first established it,”said Ms de Graaf.

mother and father. They strongly believed

“He wanted to manufacture products that

in forming good business relationships and

were high in quality, would stand the test

maintaining them. A lot of companies swap

of time and were connected to nature. He

and change to get the cheapest possible

worked hard to make sure that the cus-

options, but we don’t. We know our sup-

tomers returned, but not the products.”

pliers, we trust them, and we believe in

This way of thinking is still alive within the

the quality of the materials they provide

company today, and is actively promoted

us with.

to all customers. DEGRA’s retrofitting service

“We do, however, always take into account the wishes of our customers; and if they request the use of a specific supplier, we’re always open to that.”

is one such amenity that aims to strengthen this outlook.

For those looking to save time and money, repurposing is the perfect choice. For a new product, customers are generally looking

214 Inside marine

at an average lead time in the market of

good for the planet, it’s good for the wallet

around 30 weeks, but by choosing to have

too. Of course, we also manufacture new

an older product revitalised, they could

equipment, but we always encourage our

save up to 20 weeks: and when choosing

customers to revitalise old before they

a DEGRA stock item in the meantime we

purchase new.”

can fully eliminate that lead time.

DEGRA also has a rental fleet for

“We take the aged equipment back to

customers who are not looking to commit

our facility, strip it down, refurbish it, and

to new equipment. With a large stock of

bring it back to life,” said Mr Colgan.

winches and power packs ready for rental,

“This service is one that a lot of people

this service has been a major player in

don’t know about,” Ms de Graaf added.

preventing the scrappage of equipment.

“The price of a new motor is immense and

“Every year, we expand our rental fleet,”

refurbing an existing product is not just

said Ms de Graaf. “Not only do we have 200

Inside marine 215

DEGRA

I PROFILE

winches in stock, ranging from half-a-tonne

Hydro-CAN designs and delivers hardware

to 30 tonnes, but we have the gearboxes

using CAN-bus controls which allow for

and motors available as well. Often, we

remote access to equipment in real time.

supply a winch as part of a turn-key delivery

“Further integrating our worlds is a very

including our own designed EHPU units avail-

exciting prospect for DEGRA,” Mr Colgan

able from stock up to 180 kW.

said. “Electronic control is developing

“When people are talking about health

at an incredible rate: these controls can

and safety, we want to create the best

be programmed to send live data to the

possible equipment for the operator to work

customer, which is incredibly important

with. Using radio remote controls upgrades

for the offshore industry. Some of our

the position of the operator to the next level:

customers have operational costs within

away from noise and ensuring the safest

the hundreds of thousands, and they

operator position during offshore activities.”

can’t afford for the equipment to stop working. So that continuous equipment

“The most important part of the job is being able to add value to customers’ projects.

We offer longevity and reliability. That’s why our clients are some of the biggest offshore companies in The Netherlands and the world.”

UK Sales Manager Damian Colgan.

Now featuring Hydro-CAN Having worked with Hydro-CAN – a hydraulic and control systems expert that specialises in CAN-bus control – for 15 years, DEGRA made the decision to acquire the tech specialist at the start of 2023.

216 Inside marine

monitoring with status feedback is a real game changer.”

Mr Colgan’s presence within the company also kickstarted another exciting chapter and another milestone for DEGRA as the very first non-Dutch colleague. Previously focused on the market in the Netherlands, the company decided to add support into the UK market, working with already wellknown contacts and customers already established.

“Of course, we don’t want to conquer the UK winch and hydraulic market,”

requirements, and equipment that is ready

Ms de Graaf concluded, “but we want to

to go to work today.

be present there; helping to provide people

“We love working with new companies,

with equipment they otherwise wouldn’t

because when minds come together,

have, making them aware of the stock we

amazing things are created. And ultimately,

hold ready to support their projects and

teamwork is what DEGRA is all about.”

n

Inside marine 217

VERHOEF

I PROFILE

Verhoef was founded in 1954 and made its name with electrical installations for maritime and land-based industries. Nexus Energy is a sustainable innovation startup developing modular zero-emission solutions for maritime and on-shore applications. Edwin van den Dool, Sales Manager at Verhoef, and Lars Lamet, CCO & Co-Founder of Nexus, explained to Hannah Barnet how the two companies got together, and where they are going next.

218 Inside marine

V

erhoef and Nexus Energy have created a product for the marine industry that is innovative, useful

and truly sustainable.

“In order to make the energy transition happen, an alternative solution should not feel like an imposed change, it should

than a typical engine run on diesel. But

feel like an improvement,” Nexus CCO &

this was not something the company had

Co-Founder Lars Lamet said. “But that is

the capability to develop alone.

only the case if a product is easier, better

“When we started engineering the unit,

and more fun. And not just one of those;

we soon found that we needed electrical

all three. This is the challenge that

knowledge and experience within the

we took on with Verhoef. We created

maritime industry,” Mr Lamet explained.

a product that is better than a diesel

“Both Wouter (Guijt, CEO & Co-Founder of

engine in all three of these respects.”

Nexus) and myself are mechanical engineers, so nuts and bolts we understand,

A marine match

but electricity, at that time, a little bit less.

Nexus has developed a drivetrain

We went into our network and started

that uses electricity from hydrogen for

asking which companies would be

heavy-duty applications, such as work

a good fit, and multiple people mentioned

boats and dredging equipment. The

Verhoef; not only because of its track

power pack can be put in a work vessel

record in the industry, but also because

and generates green electricity. The result

it’s a company that works closely with

is far more efficient, (as well as cheaper),

its partners.”

Inside marine 219

VERHOEF

I PROFILE

“By the end of 2024, Nexus and Verhoef will be able to provide units of the same dimensions with twice the power, up to a 400kW peak” A modular power pack was developed

but it is new,” he explained. “One of the

using two 60kW hydrogen fuel cell engines

things Nexus wanted to accomplish was

for both stationary and heavy-duty applica-

to make the system as compact as pos-

tions. And according to Mr Lamet, the col-

sible, to fit it into dredging equipment and

laboration with Verhoef has proved to be a

work boats; and the electricals were, of

match made in marine heaven.

course, a crucial element within that.”

“Verhoef was able to follow our guide-

On the Verhoef side, the company jumped

lines to develop an electrical system,

at the opportunity to explore innovative sus-

which was quite a challenge, because

tainable solutions, though the specification

what we are doing is not rocket science,

of the design did prove a challenge initially.

220 Inside marine

“I got together with the engineers

“When we started, the solution was so

to sit down and try to think of a solution,”

obvious that we took around three quarters

Verhoef Sales Manager Edwin van den

of a year just to check no one else already

Dool recalled. “The challenges were

designed this system – because

placing all the components in such

it was such a no-brainer for us,” Mr Lamet

a small area, including the cabling, fuses

said. “But we discovered that this was

and so on. So first, we did a paper study

not the case. And the main reason, next to

and then we put all the materials together

the required software, was the complexities

with our guys in the workshop: and from

of the electrical system. So, this is where

this collaborative effort, we came up with

Verhoef played a crucial role by enabling us

a suitable solution.”

to develop such an efficient system.”

The Nexus and Verhoef drivetrain

Nexus and Verhoef remain confident

remains a standout product. Nothing so

that this profitable partnership will

compact, or offering the same plug-and-

continue into the long-term, and the com-

play characteristics and power density,

panies are now discussing a framework

is available on the market.

agreement for the former to perform

Inside marine 221

VERHOEF

I PROFILE

222 Inside marine

maintenance and service activi-

solution is here, and we are open for busi-

ties for the latter. Bigger units are

ness. Not in a year or two: we are ready

also on the horizon.

to go now.”

Pioneering partnerships

A hydrogen-powered future

Nexus will be present alongside

Nexus has already received its first

Verhoef at Europort 2023

orders and, to accommodate anticipated

in Rotterdam, exhibiting the

demand, Verhoef is working on improving

innovative product.

the strength of its supply chain to produce

“By showing that we can really make this product work, Verhoef will gain visibility in

the necessary number of units in the coming years.

By the end of 2024, Nexus and Verhoef

the sustainability field,” Mr van

will be able to provide units of the same

den Dool said. “And for sure, there have

dimensions with twice the power, up to

been some setbacks within the process.

a 400kW peak. “Producing to this level is

But the way to handle them is part of

not a question, but a given,” Mr Lamet said.

the solution and the success. So while

Nexus is also moving into the inland

the gain is partly about more clients

shipping market, alongside one of its

for Nexus – and also for us – it is also

shareholders, Zwijnenburg Shipyard, to

a seat at the sustainability table with

develop a pitstop retrofit operation for

the players that are really looking to

inland vessels to exchange their drive-

the future.”

train from diesel to a Nexus system.

For Mr Lamet and Nexus, a show on

“This upgrade will make improvements

the scale of Europort presents an ideal

on the hull design, allowing vessels to have

networking opportunity for potential cus-

less water depth so they can either carry

tomers and stakeholders. “I have invited

more cargo, or they can sail for longer,” Mr

lots of marine contractors to our stand so

Lamet explained. “And that’s also a project

they can talk to us – not only as a startup,

where Verhoef will be involved to work on

but also with Verhoef,” said Mr Lamet.

all the electrical systems.

“Of course, one of the intentions is to

“It is what Verhoef does perfectly,

sell our product and services. But also,

because it is just like when they went

to find ways of working together.

with our first crazy idea. They came in

“Because as soon as people see

completely blank. But within a couple

there is a business case that makes

of days, they understood the plan. And

sense, they want to be involved;

we started working together to make

it is a no-brainer. We hope to

it happen. So we know that will also

spread the word that the

happen on these subsequent projects.” n

Inside marine 223

VDR MARINE EQUIPMENT

224 Inside marine

I PROFILE

At Dubai’s VDR Marine Equipment, decades of revered and highly specialised Dutch maritime expertise are applied to the manufacture, repair and refurbishment of marine cranes, winches and assorted mechanical deck equipment. VDR Marine Equipment fills a crucial role in the Middle East’s fast-moving offshore oil and gas industry. Managing Director Fred van Dort and Business Development Executive Ferdi van Dort chatted with Richard Hagan about the company’s impressive service record.

or the last fourteen years, VDR Marine

F

in 2015 by current Managing Director Fred

Equipment has provided specialised

van Dort, as a service provider for cranes

maritime crane manufacturing and

and winches – both onshore and offshore

repair services to customers around the

– as well as providing electrical and hydraulic

Middle East.

repairs for deck equipment.

The company engineers, manufactures and maintains lifting and pulling equipment and other material handling products for a wide variety of marine, offshore and industrial applications, providing a robust toolbox of solutions to support its customers’ needs.

An uplifting history VDR Marine Equipment was established in 2019 as a result of a merger between VDR and Jebsen & Jessen Offshore (one of the world’s largest marine equipment OEMs, formerly known as Marine Equipment).

VDR was established several years earlier

Inside marine 225

VDR MARINE EQUIPMENT

I PROFILE

Following the merger, Mr van Dort was

facilities include a vast array of machinery

later joined by relative Ferdi van Dort as

and other capabilities that allow it to

Business Development Executive.

manufacture cranes and handle its

Today, VDR Marine Equipment employs

servicing commitments.

fifteen staff members across two facilities

VDR Marine Equipment’s Programmable

– one in Abu Dhabi and one in Dubai. Its

Logic Computer (PLC) testing equipment is a particular highlight of its capabilities.

“We have invested a lot of time and money into our PLC programming and testing equipment,” Managing Director Fred van Dort revealed. “That makes us unique because there are only a handful of companies in the world who are able to program cranes and the complicated systems that run them.”

In 2022, VDR Marine Equipment carried out 200 projects worldwide – both new builds and services and repairs – a figure that the company is especially proud of given its relatively small staff footprint.

228 Inside marine

European maritime expertise

is in its bespoke load monitoring systems.

With a career spanning over two decades,

The company’s systems – known as Load

spent working in some of the world’s largest

Monitoring Indication (LMI) – are industry-

dredging companies, Fred van Dort can now

leading for their accuracy and robustness.

leverage his considerable work experience

“We have designed the hardware

and industry expertise in developing solu-

and the software ourselves,” explained

tions for VDR Marine Equipment’s customers.

Business Development Executive Ferdi

He explained the value of this experience

Van Dort. “The LMI systems that we build

for the company’s Middle Eastern market:

encompass the whole crane and allow

“European maritime knowledge and quality

you to record everything that happens

– especially that of marine equipment and

to that piece of equipment, in terms of the

services – is widely regarded across the

load exerted on it. Once you reach 90 per

region. That creates an opportunity for us

cent of the load capacity, an alarm sounds

to compete on a very strong basis with

and the machine automatically switches

local companies.”

to reduced power or speed.”

One of the areas in which VDR Marine Equipment’s expertise is on full display

Inside marine 229

VDR MARINE EQUIPMENT

I PROFILE

VDR Marine Equipment has an LMI system

While the company’s new-build crane

for winches as well – including mooring and

manufacturing programmes are important,

towing winches. “We are developing an

its repairs and maintenance department is

audible slip detection that generates a

just as critical to VDR Marine Equipment’s

warning when a slip is detected,” said Fred

success, as Fred van Dort highlighted:

van Dort. “There’s also a recording function

“Refurbishment of cranes and winches is

for tension and length so that if a fault

one of our core businesses. We upgrade

occurs, you can go back and check what

the equipment to bring it up to date with

happened and where the fault occurred.

current rules and regulations, complete

“This technology is particularly impor-

with LMI systems and new controls.”

tant when our customers are working on big wind turbines, or towing a large barge,

Into the deep

for example. If something goes wrong,

A recent project encompasses all of the

the fault must be recorded so that the

skills, expertise and capabilities of VDR

problem can be resolved.”

Marine Equipment and its teams.

The company built and delivered a crane capable of working to a staggering water

230 Inside marine

depth of 3,000 metres. The crane, which has a load capacity of 25 tonnes, was

Fred van Dort explained. “To achieve this,

installed on a diving support vessel and

in 2024 we’re planning to increase our

includes active heave compensation.

production capacity and manpower by

The vessel was built in the United Arab

200 per cent. This will include additional

Emirates and travelled to Norway for fitting

staff training and additional testing tools.”

out, before deploying to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,

In the meantime, VDR Marine Equipment has

where it works in the oil and gas industry. The

become a member of the Lifting Equipment

vessel is multi-mission capable, however,

Engineers Association (LEEA), a crucial step

and can be deployed for any number of

on its growth path.

other roles including cable laying, seismic surveys and various other tasks.

Concluding, Fred van Dort reflected on his love for the work that the company

The successful delivery and commis-

does. “Building and working on cranes is

sioning of that crane propelled VDR Marine

my hobby,” he said, laughing. “It makes me

Equipment into exploring plans to increase

very happy to be able to do this job; it’s my

its capacity for building more cranes of

hobby – my lifestyle. When people ask me

that size – and larger. “We want to build

when I plan to retire, my answer is that it

100-tonne cranes for 3,000-metre water

will be when I can no longer climb into

depths, with active heave compensation,”

a crane. Until then, I’m not retiring!”

n

Inside marine 231

ULTRAGUARD ANTIFOULING

I PROFILE

The Ultraguard Antifouling system from UK-based Marine Growth Prevention Specialists is helping to redefine the next generation of ultrasonic antifouling solutions for the commercial marine sector. As an easy-to-use, hassle-free, zero-pollution operation, it prevents biofouling from sticking to a ship’s hull and does not harm the marine ecosystem. Technical Director Chris Ryan met Andy Probert to discuss the evolution of a solution that has sparked significant interest from ship owners globally.

232 Inside marine

A

meeting of minds between

“Ultraguard is a cost-effective alternative

Gavin Fisher and Chris Ryan, two

to biocides and copper-based antifouling

veterans of the marine engineering

systems,” said Technical Director Mr Ryan.

world, has brought one of the biggest chal-

“Since we introduced the system in 2020,

lenges into sharp focus and dawned

interest and demand from ship owners

a commercial innovation now selling

worldwide has been significant.”

worldwide. How to prevent biofouling of ships’ hulls has become a major concern,

System deep-dive

given the IMO’s directives surrounding

Ultraguard uses high-frequency ultrasonic

invasive species, biofouling and ballast

waves to create an environment that pre-

water treatment.

vents the larvae of mussels, barnacles and

With their experience, Mr Fisher and

other marine growth, (such as weed spores),

Mr Ryan, through their company Marine

from settling on a surface and beginning

Growth Prevention Specialists (MGPS),

their colonisation cycle. Ultraguard uses

have introduced Ultraguard. This effective

ultrasonic pulses to cause transducers to

ultrasonic antifouling system prevents

resonate. These transducers then vibrate

marine growth or biofouling from

internally on a ship’s hull at a high frequency.

establishing itself on hulls, sea chests, seawater pipes and plate coolers.

As ultrasonic transducers are mass-spring devices, their frequency is dynamic and

Inside marine 233

ULTRAGUARD ANTIFOULING

I PROFILE

can change from position to position on

about five metres. The vibration disrupts

a vessel. Its proprietary firmware can

the bond between the larvae and spores

account for these changes to ensure

from holding onto the hull’s surface. They

every transducer has a strong resonance

float away because they cannot grip the

response every time.

hull, leaving the vessel biofouling-free.

By bonding the transducer to the hull’s

“Without protection, seawater systems

interior with direct surface-to-surface

can be colonised by biofouling species,

contact, the vibration created is trans-

such as barnacles and mussels, and

ferred to the hull plating for a radius of

eventually they could colonise the internal systems and block pipes,” Mr Ryan said.

“These can cause catastrophic machine failures due to ineffective cooling.”

The company has now introduced an Ultraguard TCB App, which allows operators to retrieve operational history from each system. It also enables an operator to stop frequency conflicts with other equipment in seconds by making blocking or unblocking channels a simple click button procedure.

“Having evolved the system, Ultraguard is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced and powerful ultrasonic

234 Inside marine

antifouling systems on the market today for the marine sector,” Mr Ryan added.

It also compares favourably to antifouling paints, which create a super slick surface that marine growth struggles to form an initial bond to. “This is great in theory, but in practice, the vessel needs to be moving through the water at speed,” he said.

“Modern paints offer no protection if it is slow moving or stationary. Ultraguard offers protection against marine growth on the hull even if the vessel is entirely still and tied up alongside for extended periods.

Inside marine 235

ULTRAGUARD ANTIFOULING

I PROFILE

“The beauty of our system is that it is

industrial history from the building of the first

chemical-free, easy to use and removes the

working steamship to the latest high-tech

consumable costs of copper ICAF anodes

manufacturing in Silicon Glen.

and other legacy biocide systems. It is zero-

The Covid lockdown forced Mr Ryan and

pollution, and no chemicals, metals or

Mr Fisher to change their mindsets from

poisons enter the marine ecosystem.

travelling thousands of miles a week to

“Ultraguard offers up to a 40 per cent

holding virtual meetings with potential

reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

clients. “We quickly adapted and became

over unprotected vessels, zero carbon

extremely busy online,” Mr Ryan continued.

emissions and cost saving of up to a 90

“I think that was good as it forced us to

per cent over a vessel’s lifetime com-

reach beyond the UK and Europe, getting

pared to alternatives.”

Ultraguard onto the world stage.”

The company has gone from zero income

Stellar growth

to doubling turnover every year since 2020,

“Having first-hand experience marketing

and is on track to hit seven figures by the

and selling several similar systems, we decided to offer the commercial marine market products of the highest quality along with the technical support and logistics they require,” said Mr Ryan. “The only solution was to manufacture them ourselves. With former seagoing engineers in our design team, Ultraguard was designed from the start with the operator in mind.”

Ultraguard is manufactured within the Scottish Central Belt, which has an illustrious

236 Inside marine

end of 2023. This has been assisted by

The company is currently involved in an

having a strong network of distributors and

oil and gas project to overcome challenges

sales agents covering every continent.

around seawater cooling systems, as well

“Having that has given us a major boost in

as collaboration with parties in the offshore

reaching potential clients further and faster

renewables sector. “We have many projects

than we could have done on our own,”

in the pipeline, and the next 12 months look

Mr Ryan said.

fascinating,” he added.

Several thousand units have been issued

One major challenge has been

to clients, and the system has been used

supply-chain issues from the import

on many vessels, including fast offshore

of specific components from mainland

supply boats, tween deck cargo, ASD and

Europe, while those from the Far East

Ice Class tugs.

are at best ‘sporadic’.

“In the past year, the company has

Mr Ryan said the company had gained a

seen massive growth in the crew transfer

healthy reputation in dealing with problems

vessels for offshore wind farms,” Mr Ryan

quickly. “We often go above and beyond to

said. “America offers significant potential

ensure our system offers the client as little

as the wind farm industry is taking shape.

hassle or worry as possible,” he concluded.

It has legislation that states that any

“Being available and proactive are key to

vessels operating exclusively in its waters

MGPS’ success and have helped ensure

have to be built in the US. We have picked

we can look to the future with confidence

up a lot of work there as well as on deep-

as more projects arise.”

n

sea going commercial vessels, such as fishing vessels, container ships, bulk carriers and car carriers.

“The growth in offshore wind has been specifically about hull protection, while the deep-sea vessels are concerned with clean and efficient seawater cooling systems.

“The IMO’s legislation against invasive species around ballast water has been extended to hulls and seawater cooling systems. Countries like Australia are stringent on the growth on the hulls, and we have had a major interest in that direction. We have trialled with major players in the shipping world, and they have gone very well. So, these companies are looking to fit out fleets with Ultraguard.”

Inside marine 237

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