Our opening video for this issue of Inside Marine is a short tribute to the many and varied owners and operators within the industry. To read more about this aspect of maritime business, please see the dedicated section later in the magazine.
Managing Director
John White
Editor
Phil Nicholls
Editorial Assistants
Imogen Ward
Hannah Barnett
Antonia Cole
Feature Writers
Andy Probert
Richard Hagan
Colin Chinery
Finance Director
Filomena Nardi-Smith
Accounts
Chloe Frosdick
Angel Esherwood
Business
Development Manager
Darren Foiret
Research Editors
Jeff Johnson
Judi Wheaton-Mars
Ginelle Lorenzo
Tony Ingrouille
Natalie Martin
Mark Simmonds
Becky Scrivens
Kristel Hitter
Matt Spalding
Tarjinder Kaur
Sales Director
Richard Brightmore
Sales Manager
Helen Leisi
Project Managers
Alexander Paterson
Chris Renicar
David Earl
Lisa Smith
Loretta Smith
Mika Warner-Wright
Kym Hamilton
Dennis Morales
Studio Manager
Philip White
Webmaster
Michael Stamp
Designers
Sarah Jones
Georgina Maclead
Sam Moyse
Operations Manager
Gavin Bellward
Head of Admin
Joanna Wartacz
Marketing
Adam White (Manager)
Katie Jones (Head of Events)
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Comment Editor’s
– Phil Nicholls Editor –
The baton passes
Editor Phil Nicholls takes on the mantle of writing the opening article.
Hello, and welcome to the latest edition of Inside Marine. Alongside our usual selection of articles and news, this issue also sees my first opening editorial piece for this magazine.
Truly, this represents the end of an era. After 15 years and over 200 opening articles, Managing Director John White has finally put down his pen and passed the baton to me. I feel the responsibility of welcoming our many readers to a new edition and I hope to be a worthy successor to John’s legacy.
Despite this change of figurehead, we still present you with a selection of familiar articles, company profiles and news. The focus for this issue of Inside Marine is on the owners and operators. The introduction to this section highlights the important work conducted by BIMCO, with a special question and answer interview with David Loosley, Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO. This issue is our final Inside Marine for 2024. My sense of reaching the end of a journey is reinforced in the Events Partnership section with short reviews of both ADIPEC and SMM.
Of course, as one voyage ends, so another begins. The team is already working on our 2025 calendar, where we will sail onwards into the new year with our usual cargo of event partnerships, company profiles and news. Trying to shape our coverage for another year is an exciting prospect. I look forward to sharing with you all the next step in our journey. For now, however, we have the finale of 2024 to enjoy.
After several years of cutting down John’s articles to fit the available wordcount, I now understand the limitations of trying to summarise so much content into such a small space. Thus, I shall wish you well and send you forth to explore the rest of the magazine. n
Latest developments from the US industry
USA
Photon Marine and the Port of Friday Harbor secure $7 million grant
The Port of Friday Harbor has been awarded $7 million as part of the Washington State Department of Transportation's Port Electrification Grant Program. This funding will enable the Port to launch an expansive range of carbon-reduction projects, further establishing it as a leader in sustainable maritime practices within the Salish Sea.
The grant is part of a broader $26.5 million initiative across 11 Washington State ports, collectively aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 140,000 metric tonnes over the next decade.
The awarded grant will support the Port of Friday Harbor in its ambitious efforts to electrify its operations, including the installation of advanced charging infrastructure for cruise ships and smaller vessels, a solar canopy and microgrid, and the introduction of several electric workboats. In partnership with Photon Marine, a leader in electric propulsion technology, the Port will replace internal combustion engine vessels with electric alternatives, thereby reducing emissions and enhancing the region’s environmental health.
The partnership with Photon Marine will see the deployment of advanced electric
vessels, including a 24-foot electric pumpout vessel, a 24-foot electric workboat and a 28-foot electric passenger transport boat. These vessels will significantly reduce diesel particulate and NOx emissions, improve water quality, and reduce noise pollution. This benefits the local marine life, including the resident orca pods.
The Port Electrification Handbook, developed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, played a critical role in guiding the Port's strategy. The Handbook highlights the wide-ranging benefits of port electrification, from environmental improvements to enhanced energy resilience. n
Hecla Emissions Management, a joint venture between Wilhelmsen Ship Management and Affinity Shipping LLP, has launched its FuelEU Maritime Exchange (FME) platform. The FME is the shipping industry's first and only platform designed to facilitate secure trading of FuelEU Maritime compliance balances, driving the adoption of alternative fuels.
The platform allows users to tokenise and transfer compliance balances on a digital ledger built on blockchain principles. This innovative approach enables the transfer or trading of compliance balances on a 'per voyage' basis, eliminating the need to wait until the end of the compliance period.
The FuelEU Maritime regulation, coming into effect on January 1, 2025, requires all vessels over 5,000GT calling EU ports to report the carbon intensity of the fuels they use. Ships that exceed the prescribed fuel carbon intensity target will have a compliance deficit and will either face penalties, be required to borrow balances from the next year, or ‘pool’ with vessels in compliance surplus. Most companies wanting to avoid paying the penalty will need to acquire compliance surplus
externally, but the regulation makes no provision for this.
When shipping entered the EU ETS at the start of 2024, it joined a highly liquid, mature financial market with proven rules and settlement processes. As FuelEU Maritime has no such infrastructure in place, Hecla's FME aims to bridge this gap, offering the necessary infrastructure for trading compliance balances and ensuring that the regulation aligns with the shipping industry's existing contractual frameworks.
Established in 2023, Hecla has rapidly become a leader in environmental compliance, managing EU ETS compliance for over 35 clients and more than 1,000 vessels across each sector of the shipping industry. With the launch of the FuelEU Maritime Exchange, Hecla Emissions Management is once again pioneering solutions that help the shipping industry. n
KINGDOM
National Oceanography Centre trialling fossil-free marine fuels UNITED
The UK’s National Oceanography Centre (NOC) is trialling the use of a fossil-free marine diesel to fuel the Royal Research Ships James Cook and Discovery.
The use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), made from used vegetable oils, fats and non-food crops, is able to significantly reduce net CO2 vessel emissions compared to conventional diesel fuel.
The trial is funded by the UK’s Natural Environment Research Council, which owns the two vessels, in support of UK Research and Innovation’s goal to achieve net zero emission operations by 2040.
HVO can be used as a ‘drop-in’ replacement in marine engines and, because it’s made from already used products and non-food crops, it’s life-cycle CO2 emissions are much lower than fossil fuel.
“As a research organisation, NOC is focused on understanding and protecting our ocean,” said Kevin Williams, Head of Research Ships Engineering at NOC. “Reducing our own environmental footprint is key and the carbon emissions from our vessels is a major part of that.”
During the trial, HVO is replacing the low-
sulphur marine gas oil NOC normally uses. HVO is one of the more stable biofuels, which means it’s suitable for the different conditions NOC vessels operate in, from high temperature regions to the Arctic.
The HVO trial is part of wider emissions reduction work at NOC. For the vessels, this includes assessing the use of batteries onboard, to reduce the use of the engines during scientific operations, and a focus on marine operations planning, to reduce transit time and more efficient routing based on weather. n
Latest developments from the Singapore industry
SINGAPORE
Singapore steps up global offshore wind development
Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), the Association of Singapore Marine & Offshore Energy Industries (ASMI) and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand Singapore’s network with the global offshore wind sector and foster more project and innovation opportunities between Singapore and international players in this space.
This new partnership was signed at Wind Energy Hamburg 2024, one of the world’s largest wind energy industry events.
Under the MOU, EnterpriseSG, ASMI and GWEC will collaborate in joint initiatives to grow the global offshore wind ecosystem, drive further innovation and technological developments that support the offshore wind supply chain. These initiatives include policy development, network building and knowledge exchange, and capability-building.
This involves policy dialogues and joint publications to address regulatory challenges, facilitating project structuring and financing, exploring regional collaboration and adopting best practices.
Additionally, there will be events for commercial matchmaking and knowledge
transfers among industry stakeholders, aimed at catalysing market access for Singapore companies to test and develop new innovative offshore wind solutions.
Capacity building programmes, workshops, and training sessions will also enhance the capabilities of offshore wind companies to drive the talent pipeline in the offshore wind sector.
The activities will be rolled out over the next two years and are expected to benefit about 100 Singapore enterprises and 150 GWEC members in the offshore wind sector. This effort is part of Singapore’s commitment earlier this year to invest and explore growth opportunities in the global offshore wind sector, which is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of more than 20% between 2022 to 2030 and worth US$126 billion per annum by 2030. n
Ultra-modern research vessel relies on tried-and-tested propulsion technology
Following on the heels of the new special-purpose vessel Meteor IV for the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the non-profit Schmidt Ocean Institute’s (SOI) research vessel R/V FALKOR (too) is also using proven propulsion technology made in Germany. It represents another prestigious project for Voith in the scientific segment.
The SOI was founded in 2009 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt to drive oceanographic research through the development of innovative technologies, the open exchange of information and widespread communication about the health of the oceans. Year around, the institute operates the world’s only philanthropic vessel – the ultra-modern R/V FALKOR (too) – made available free of charge to the international research community.
The 110-metre-long and 20-metre-wide R/V FALKOR (too) was built more than 10 years ago by Norwegian shipping company GC Rieber and was originally called Polar Queen. It was purchased by the SOI in 2021 and, following a complete upgrade,
became the direct successor to the much smaller and FALKOR vessel.
On an area of 980 square metres, it offers sufficient space for 98 people and state-of-the-art research technology. There are a total of eight laboratories on board – including a 105-square-metre main lab, wet labs, a scientific seawater lab, computer electronics lab, robotics lab and cold lab for biological work.
When it came to the propulsion technology for the vessel, the SOI’s priorities were for minimal noise emissions underwater, maximum manoeuvrability, precise positioning and active roll stabilisation.
Initially already designed to meet the highest requirements, the two VSP 36R6 ECR/300-2 in the stern ensure the necessary thrust and comfort of the R/V FALKOR (too). The researchers and crew on board will be able to work safely and without distractions in future, even in rough seas, while relying on the outstanding positioning accuracy and active roll stabilization of the Voith Schneider Propellers. n
Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic debut new co-brand
For more than 20 years, the collaboration between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic has been synonymous with small-ship modern expedition cruising. Now, the two companies are taking their industry-defining relationship to the next level with the debut of a new name and refreshed co-branded identity, National GeographicLindblad Expeditions.
The launch of the new co-brand represents a significant milestone in the long-term extension and expansion of the strategic relationship between Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic and The Walt Disney Company. The move was made possible under the new 17-year agreement between the three innovative brands announced in November 2023, which granted Lindblad Expeditions global rights to the National Geographic brand for expedition cruises until at least 2040.
The new National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions co-branded identity and logo will be fully implemented across all
owned-marketing channels by the end of the year, starting with the launch of the redesigned consumer website. In early 2025, the co-brand will debut a sweeping omnichannel consumer and trade marketing campaign – the largest in Lindblad Expeditions’ history –powered in part by the reach of The Walt Disney Company. The implementation of new branding across Lindblad Expeditions’ growing fleet of 20 owned, leased and chartered vessels will begin in 2025.
With its pioneering history in modern expedition cruising, Lindblad Expeditions has expertly led curious and discerning travellers on journeys of deep discovery to the farthest reaches of the planet for more than half a century. For the past two decades, Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic have collaborated through a shared mission: To foster a spirit of discovery and community by blending science, nature and purposedriven travel. n
Latest innovations from the marine industry
YachtWave unveils boat delivery platform
YachtWave®, the leading provider of innovative solutions for the boating industry, announced the official release of the YachtWave Delivery Platform, a groundbreaking tool designed to revolutionise how boat manufacturers and dealers manage the boat delivery process. The YachtWave Delivery Platform debuted at IBEX 2024 in Tampa, Florida.
The platform streamlines the complex and paper-heavy process of delivering boats to customers. It provides a seamless, digital-first approach that significantly enhances customer satisfaction while improving operational efficiency for
manufacturers and dealers. The platform offers innovative features that address many of the long-standing challenges in the boat delivery process.
This includes build project status timelines, task management for customers and dealers, digital document delivery, anytime access to orientation training, AI Mechanic™ support, and maintenance logs and parts inventory.
“YachtWave is revolutionising how manufacturers and dealers deliver boats to buyers,” said CEO of YachtWave Captain John O'Keefe. “Our platform not only simplifies the process for manufacturers and dealers, but also provides an enhanced, stress-free experience for the customer.
“The days of unwieldy paper manuals and delayed communication are over. With YachtWave, everything is digital, streamlined and designed with the customer in mind.” n
Tideworks Technology announced new Data Platform solution
Tideworks celebrated its 25th anniversary with the launch of its new data management product.
Tideworks Technology® Inc (Tideworks), a full-service provider of comprehensive terminal operating system (TOS) solutions, announced the launch of its new Tideworks Data Platform (Data Platform) solution at the Tideworks 2024 Customers Conference. The solution is a comprehensive data platform that gives stakeholders access and streamlined use of their near real-time and historical data.
Data Platform collects, cleanses, normalises and standardises data securely in near real-time. The platform integrates with Tideworks’ core TOS solutions to ensure quality, accuracy, timeliness and
reliability of data, boosting productivity and business value.
Data Platform merges widely used opensource tools and industry-standard architecture for near real-time data movement, high availability and trustworthy data and fast development. The product’s reliance on extensible connections allows it to integrate easily into greater enterprise data strategies, supporting a large range of operational use cases.
A 360 view of operations also provides near real-time visibility into data across all Tideworks’ core TOS and terminal applications. The platform also benefits from optimal security, by isolating each customer’s data; full transparency across operational teams; secure Data Governance; and a ready to go dashboard that is streamlined for operator ease.
Data Platform is available and is currently being deployed to leading marine and rail operators across the United States, Mexico and Latin America.
seven seas, five oceans, one voice
EVENT PARTNERSHIPS
A selection of forthcoming events, followed by reviews of SMM and ADIPEC.
10-11 February 2025
Breakbulk Middle East
Breakbulk Middle East is the breakbulk and project cargo hub in the Middle East, supported by several GCC governments. Conveniently located in Dubai, Breakbulk Middle East will attract more than 6,400 companies representing the full industrial supply chain from over 98 countries.
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19-21 November 2024 METSTRADE
METSTRADE is the world’s largest and only truly international B2B exhibition for the leisure marine industry since 1988. Where innovation meets maritime excellence, uniting global leaders, cutting-edge tech and unmatched networking. Visitors can explore pavilions for Superyachts, Marinas, Construction materials, Start-ups and Foiling.
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18-19
Superyac
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12-14 November 2
International WorkBoat Show
The cutting-edge of commercial ma maritime industry tradition at the Int As the maritime industry embraces Show remains at the forefront, driving prog industry forward.
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01-03 April 2025
CMA Shipping
Across three packed days, CMA Shipping offers opportunities for professionals to learn from industry leaders, source products and supplies from established and emerging brands, and take advantage of enviable networking opportunities. This is the leading event for maritime professionals in North America. here] for weblink
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Why not give your event exclusive coverage to thousands of readers and connections globally? Contact us: events@insidepublication.com
Inside Marine presents a short review of SMM.
SMM 2024
The nex Hamburg from w
As the world's leading trade fair and conference event for the maritime industry, SMM 2024 brought together about 48,000 participants from over 100 countries. Held 3rd to 6th September in Hamburg, the event served as a unique platform for business, the exchange of ideas and cooperation.
For four days, the shipbuilding universe met in Hamburg for the 31st SMM.
The mood was excellent at the leading international maritime trade fair as well-established enterprises and start-ups alike presented to the maritime business world the technological innovations and solutions it needs to build a green and digital shipping future.
Five specialist conferences and a wide range of networking opportunities brought
together high-level decision-makers from politics and business. Again, the key issues were ensuring a successful transformation of the industry – decarbonisation, digitalisation, recruiting, and maritime security and defence – were high on the agenda of SMM.
SMM 2024 once more delivered on its promise of being the highlight event of the international maritime sector.
“SMM is more than a trade fair – it is the heartbeat of this industry,” said Heiko M Stutzinger, CEO of Hamburg Messe und Congress (HMC). “The palpable enthusiasm among participants, the multitude of ideas and solutions, and the level of engagement shown by everybody have
xt SMM will take place in m 1 to 4 September 2026. www.smm-hamburg.com
demonstrated how indispensable this platform is for the cooperation as well as the innovative impetus of the maritime world.”
Aiming for carbon neutrality
One theme was clearly dominant in the fully booked exhibition halls and the numerous expert discussion panels: decarbonising the shipping industry. From large ship engines for alternative fuels or smart software increasing the efficiency of on-board operations through to innovative retrofitting options, SMM covered the entire value chain of the maritime sector, delivering added value to suppliers and shipbuilders alike.
“What also makes it so interesting for shipowners: this is where they can see the latest trends and technologies and can engage in conversations with industry representatives to explore ways to make their fleets more efficient and greener,” said Martin Kröger, Managing Director of the German Shipowners Association (VDR).
Held in the exhibition halls, and open to all fair participants for the first time, the conferences proved to be extremely popular. On the open stages, over 300 speakers provided practical insights and discussed the industry’s most pressing issues in a total of 70 sessions.
“We achieved exactly what we had in mind: to maximise the exchange of ideas and knowledge,” said Claus Ulrich Selbach, Business Unit Director Maritime & Technology Exhibitions at HMC.
Young talent for the future
Providing opportunities for employers to meet tomorrow’s skilled professionals was another focus at SMM 2024. After all, the future of the sector heavily depends on the availability of skilled labour. At the two-day Maritime Career Market, the flagship fair again provided a hugely popular platform for young talents, recruiters and education institutes to join hands. Companies provided fascinating insights into a variety of maritime careers while experts presented crucial career tips.
Another part of the fair fostering inspiring discoveries was Start-ups@SMM where young companies showcased innovative ideas in two specially designated areas. One topic had special allure: Artificial Intelligence. The AI CENTER provided a host of information on the state of the art.
“The AI Center offered start-ups a fantastic opportunity to build a reputation within the industry,” said Madelena Ko from Tecway Maritime Technology Limited. “We were incredibly busy and able to make many valu able new business contacts.” n
A short review of ADIPEC
ADIPEC 2024
Held from the 4th to 7th November, ADIPEC offered a unique opportunity to network with the leaders, innovators, buyers and sellers who are taking the energy industry into the future. Visitors gained an international perspective with energy professionals from over 150 countries and joined the discussion on creating a responsible and resilient energy transition.
Bringing together the entire energy industry, ADIPEC provided businesses with a unique opportunity to generate the partnerships they need to deliver new business models and product innovations that align with the priorities of an evolving energy ecosystem.
With 30 exhibiting international pavilions, ADIPEC delivered a platform for energy industry professionals from around the world to convene and explore the latest developments within the global energy ecosystem.
Sustainable focus
Running in parallel, ADIPEC hosted specialised industry areas for Decarbonisation, Maritime & Logistics, and Digitalisation, which all gave platforms for new business opportunities across the full spectrum of the energy industry.
To advance global decarbonisation goals, businesses, political decision makers and innovators were able to mobilise their knowledge, expertise and resources to move from consensus to action on emissions reduction.
The Decarbonisation area at ADIPEC sparked the disruptive thinking needed to deliver high-impact solutions for energy sustainability, bridging the gap between finance and innovation to unlock new investments in our collective energy future.
Visitors had the chance to engage in collaborative discussions about the strategies and solutions required to accelerate towards a lower-carbon world. These conversations explored new pathways to scale and grow sustainable business. This was also a chance to build cross-sector partnerships and explore transformative solutions and technologies to drive sustainability initiatives and propel the energy transition.
Decarbonisation Conference
The ADIPEC 2024 Decarbonisation Conference offered an inclusive forum dedicated to finding credible solutions that can deliver the energy system of the future, while rapidly decarbonising today’s energy systems. This year’s conference programme explored innovation, international collaboration and digitalisation as key enablers of progress, accelerated through robust policies and the adoption of high-impact technologies.
Through this programme, ADIPEC addressed an era-defining challenge: balancing the need for equitable global economic development and prosperity with the urgent need to cut global GHG
emissions. Making progress on this requires focus from all industry stakeholders to decarbonise energy systems on a global scale – advancing policy frameworks, scaling investments in clean technology, strengthening decarbonisation strategies, securing lower-carbon energy sources and ensuring energy resilience.
The conference pooled insights and expertise from the entire global energy ecosystem, creating an inclusive forum dedicated to providing invaluable access to policy discussions and business strategies that accelerate the adoption of transformational decarbonisation solutions in carbon capture, new energies, storage, efficiency, infrastructure and utilities. n
seven seas, five oceans, one voice
Owners & Operators
MAGAZINE FOCUS
An introduction to owners and operators, with a question-and-answer report from BIMCO, plus a selection of news stories and business insights, followed by company profiles.
Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO answers questions about the organisation
The practical voice of s
BIMCO facilitates trade on a global scale. Since it was established in 1905, BIMCO has grown to become a global shipping community of over 2,000 members in 130 countries. In an in-depth interview for Inside Marine, David Loosley, Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO, discussed the latest developments at the organisation.
It has been seven years since our last interview. How has BIMCO evolved and grown in this time?
Over the last seven years, BIMCO has evolved and expanded to better serve our members world-wide. We have opened offices in London to be closer to the IMO, in Brussels to be nearer to the EU decision-
making process, and in Athens and Houston to be closer to regional members.
We have also grown our membership to over 2,000 in 130 countries. We now represent 62% of the world’s tonnage, and our global membership includes shipowners, operators, managers, brokers and agents.
Internally, in 2019 we elected our first female President, Sadan Kaptanoglu, who was followed by Sabrina Chao, and currently Nikolaus H. Schües. Also, I have taken over from Angus Frew as Secretary General & CEO. BIMCO will never stop evolving, because we are here to support a truly global industry that never stands still.
What is your current work scope like? Are there any projects that are particularly noteworthy?
Our overall aim is to support our members, the IMO and the entire shipping industry in a constantly changing environment.
David Loosley, Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO
shipping
We, naturally, retain a strong focus on decarbonisation, which is a major and important challenge. For this, we have developed a portfolio of carbon clauses to support the industry and help our members navigate very complex regulations, including the CII and EU ETS. Also, we are working on contractual solutions for the upcoming FuelEU Maritime Regulation and we have greatly increased our focus on initiatives that can improve the operational efficiency of shipping, helping to cut our emissions immediately.
In addition, we are implementing campaigns focused on increasing support and keyworker status for our seafarers, as well as campaigns supporting the implementation of the Hong Kong Convention to ensure safe and environmentally responsible ship recycling.
BIMCO’s website offers all manner of features to support members, from market analysis to podcasts. How popular are these online assets, and how do you keep your features relevant to the interests of your members?
We have a very large amount of insight and information available at BIMCO.org, which is valuable to our members,
Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO answers questions about the organisation
including content written by our many experts. We keep our content and website up to date by closely following the agenda and the challenges and opportunities that our members face.
For example, there has been a very large interest in the CII and EU ETS regulations, which are very complex. In response to that, we have hosted webinars and written content pieces to help our members make sense of it all. Also, our website hosts over 300 contracts and clauses, as well as practical information on more than 1,800 ports world-wide,
up-to-date security warnings and war risk information. All of this can help our members make the best decisions when running their businesses.
Other services offered to members include training sessions for maritime law and shipping contracts. How have these developed since the launch of the Maritime Law Academy in 2019?
Our training offering is constantly evolving and continuously updated, just like our contracts and clauses, in fact.
During the pandemic, we converted all our face-to-face masterclasses into online courses, and they turned out to be extremely popular. As a result, we could reach a much wider audience worldwide. After the pandemic, we have reintroduced some of our face-to-face masterclasses, and we now offer both formats.
In terms of geography, we are currently increasing our training offering throughout Asia. In addition to our popular Summer Shipping School in Denmark and the Maritime Law Academy in the UK, we are launching three new weeklong academies this year: Ship Management Academy in Copenhagen in September, Maritime Chartering Academy in Shanghai in October, and Maritime Operations Academy in Dubai in November. In addi -
tion to our public courses, our customised in-house courses are also popular as we address the operational, chartering and legal issues our clients individually face.
The shipping industry is always evolving. Using feedback and experience from members and the industry, BIMCO keeps all its clauses and contracts under review. How would you summarise the benefits members gain from the work of the various BIMCO subcommittees?
The work of our documentary committee and the many subcommittees is crucial.
In a constantly changing regulatory environment, we keep the industry supplied with the contracts and clauses needed to operate, minimise conflicts and strive for compliance with IMO and EU regulations, not least when it comes to decarbonisation. The subcommittees consist of experts from different fields and nations. This is a big strength as it ensures input from different angles. We believe this diversity and wide -ranging expert knowledge is invaluable and beneficial to our members and the industry overall. In fact, we are experiencing a growing desire from our members to contribute, which we greatly welcome.
Secretary General & CEO of BIMCO answers questions about the organisation
Sustainability is a strong theme within the industry. How is BIMCO supporting the energy transition within shipping?
The energy transition might be the biggest task shipping has ever faced. We support our industry by offering the contracts and clauses needed to navigate the constantly changing regulations and by offering support and advice. We also hold webinars and offer courses to help the industry make sense of new regulations, clauses, fuel types, operational efficiency measures etc. In addition, we are very engaged with the IMO to support global regulation for a truly global industry
Given the global importance of maritime trade, how is the organisation voicing the concerns of members regarding the various events disrupting world shipping?
We have experienced a surge in geopolitical instability which affects shipping. To offer an example of how we voice our concerns we have repeatedly, together with our peer organisations, called to end the attacks on ships in the Red Sea. When we, as organisations, jointly call on more safety for our seafarers, who should never be targets or collateral damage during conflicts, we hope that our collective voice is stronger and that policy makers will help protect our ships, seafarers and ultimately world trade.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
Decarbonisation is one of the biggest challenges we face as an industry. The world fleet will have to replace fossilbased fuels and that is a tremendous challenge facing numerous industries. It will in fact need the involvement of many industries and many parts of the supply chain to succeed. Some of that is beyond our control but there are initiatives that can be implemented here and now. I am referring to operational efficiency which holds tremendous potential for cutting our emissions without delay. We therefore support initiatives such as those launched by the Blue Visby Consortium which focuses on reducing the practice of ‘sail
fast then wait’. Taking such initiatives on board is crucial and so is the co-operation of the supply chain, including the ports.
What are BIMCO’s main plans and objectives for the future?
I n short, we will continue to be the practical voice of shipping.
We will continue to provide our members with advice, support and tools that work in practice, not just on paper. As an organisation, we will continue to embrace new technologies to deliver more value and an even better service to our members. A recent example of this is a new tool for our
SmartCon product, which makes contract creation smarter, cheaper and faster using cutting-edge AI technology.
Right now, shipping is facing an increasingly complicated commercial and regulatory landscape, as well as rapid technological breakthroughs and digitalisation. This area is a high priority for BIMCO and one of the reasons behind our decision to establish an in-house Standards, Innovation & Research function.
Overall, BIMCO’s plans and objectives are to be at the forefront of global developments in shipping so our members can thrive, and we can all meet our goals to reduce emissions. n
American Offshore Services announces deployment of second G-Class vessel
Astate-of-the-art, hybrid-ready Crew Transfer Vessel (CTV), MN Generater has successfully completed its first month of reliable service, playing a crucial role in serving the offshore wind industry on the US East Coast.
MN Generater is the second vessel in American Offshore Services’ (A-O-S) groundbreaking G-Class series. The vessel has been delivered from Metal Shark Boats in Louisiana and is now on mission.
The G-Class series represents a significant advancement in maritime technology and offshore wind support. These vessels are designed to transport technical personnel and essential equipment to offshore wind farms. This series is crucial for constructing and maintaining wind energy infrastructure. With the capacity to accommodate 24 passengers, the G-Class is one of the largest and most capable CTVs in
the United States, setting a new standard in the industry.
Hybrid-ready, the G-Class is built to ABS class standards and is compliant with USCG Subchapter L, ensuring the highest safety levels for crew and passengers. The vessel is also equipped with four Volvo Penta D13 diesel engines (2060 kW total) and four IPS systems for exceptional power and manoeuvrability; four independent drivelines for robust redundancy and smooth operations; and Northern Offshore Services’ trusted fender design for superior grip.
MN Generater and the whole G-Class series is a testament to A-O-S’s dedication to excellence in shipbuilding and maritime operations. This launch of the second vessel marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to provide the best-in-class services to its clients, while supporting the transition to renewable energy. n
WEC Lines launches fast weekly call between Hamburg and Portugal
WEC Lines has announced the addition of Hamburg, Germany, to its existing NWC-Portugal service in one seamless operation.
Through this new addition, the Dutch shipping liner and owner successfully established a fast weekly sailing route from Hamburg to Leixões and Setúbal in Portugal. By departing from Hamburg on Sundays, arriving in Leixões on Saturdays and Setúbal on Mondays, this service offers an eco-friendly alternative to truck transport.
The ports of call include Rotterdam, Hamburg, Antwerp, Leixões, Setúbal and Montoir, forming a well-connected bridge between these vital trade hubs. The new weekly service is being performed by two dedicated 1,000-TEU vessels in a 14-day fixed rotation, with optimal short sea and hinterland linkages, to provide customers with a heightened level of flexibility and efficiency.
“By adding Hamburg to our short sea services, we can offer a fast and reliable solution for our Portuguese clients into Northwestern Europe and vice versa,” stated Caesar Luikenaar, Managing Director WEC Lines. “This underlines our commitment to respond to market demand while offering continued optimal solutions for our existing client base.”
Inside Marine asks the experts about their personal experience in the industry
Question:
My uncle, who is a businessman, told me to learn to let something go. It is better to let it go and be sorry, than keep it and regret it. I really like this, and I practice this in my business and even in my personal life.
Yahya Karahasan, Managing Director, Susesea Bulk
“ minds inside marine
What is the best single piece of business advice you have ever r
The best business advice I ever received was: ‘Never stop innovating.’ This advice has been fundamental in keeping us competitive and resilient in a constantly changing market. Continuous innovation in products, processes and management practices is what allows us to grow and thrive.
Manuel Mendes, Commercial Director, CMW Foundries
Dave Parsons, Managing Director, Kort Propulsion “ “
Be yourself, listen and learn, and be part of a great team. Focus on the problems and not the solutions. Explore as many options as possible. Commit to constant improvement.
Know your numbers: it is critical to know your own numbers when talking to customers.
It might seem strange, but one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever been given is to always be unreasonable. Being unreasonable is not necessarily a bad trait. This means that you do not accept the status quo, if things are not the way you think they should be. Most people try to be reasonable and accommodating and just accept things. But in this environment, you have to always be looking for better and not just conform to the way things are. To create positive change, sometimes you have to be unreasonable.
Carl James, CEO, St. Vincent & the Grenadines Port Authority
eceived?
“ “
People do business with people they like; you never win any business by being too proud.
“
Andreas Rolner, Managing Director, UNITED GROUP
“
When I was much younger, I worked for Maersk. And one of the most important things I learnt was to get the long-term plan right in everything I did. And honestly, I’ve tried to live that, both business-wise, but also privately.
“
Jeppe Jensen, Founder, Celsius Shipping
“
As a leader, you should aim to make yourself redundant. That means building a strong, capable team that can operate autonomously and independently. The team should be aligned with and clearly understand the company’s vision and how to achieve that vision.
“
Mark Phare, Managing Director, Teignbridge Propellers
“ “
If you cannot measure it, then you cannot improve it.
Captain Dmytro Chekhovskyy, General Manager, OKEE Maritime
“
Limits make you an expert in what you are doing.
Martijn Beunk, Business Development Manager, Royal Bodewes
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.
Managing Dir Yahya Karah
Susesea Bulk is a global shipping company headquartered in the maritime hub of Singapore. The company is known for operating a modern fleet of bulk carriers dedicated to transporting a diverse range of dry bulk commodities across the oceans. Managing Director Yahya Karahasan explained more to Hannah Barnett.
Since it was founded in 2016, Susesea Bulk has positioned itself as a key player in the global shipping industry.
That is, as a ship management and ship operating company focused on the dry bulk segment. The company has made a mark by becoming something of a specialist in this area.
“We stand out, and make a difference, thanks to our commitment to transparency and the ability to make swift, amicable decisions in order to address any issues
that arise,” said Yahya Karahasan, Managing Director. “These qualities enable us to build trust and maintain strong, effective relationships with our clients and the business banks.”
A multitude of milestones
As a results-driven company, the last eight years have been successful and profitable for Susesea Bulk. Alongside a head office in Singapore, there is also now a branch office in Istanbul and a shipping representative office in London.
The company focuses on the Handy to Kamsarmax segments, utilising a mix of fully-managed vessels, long-term chartered tonnage and commercially-managed ships. This versatile approach ensures Susesea Bulk can provide tailored, cost-effective and reliable transportation solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients.
In the company’s early years, it managed its own fleet as an owner, it then started to charter in vessels to handle bulk cargoes
rector asan
SUSESEA BULK I PROFILE
on a project-to-project basis. That changed in 2019 when Susesea Bulk secured its first long-term charter vessel from a major entity based in China. This was followed, later that year, by another long-term charter vessel from the Japanese market. “These charters underscored the trust and reputation we have earned internationally,” said Mr Karahasan.
Perhaps the most significant milestone for Susesea Bulk passed earlier in 2024 when the company parted ways with its initial shareholders. “That has allowed us greater agility in business decision making,” Mr Karahasan explained.
Indeed, greater agility has been exemplified by the development of the fleet over the subsequent months. For example, the company recently signed a ship building contract with Nantong Cosco Kawasaki Ship Engineering Co shipyard for two units of 64,000DWT bulk carriers.
“As of today, we manage four modern Japanese-built Handy size bulk carriers and two Ultramax bulk carriers under our newbuild programme,” Mr Karahasan said. “Additionally, we commercially manage nearly 10 bulk carriers of various sizes through our affiliated company. ”
Sustainable shipping
Susesea Bulk’s sustainable growth strategy is driven by continuous improvement in quality, health and safety, business excellence, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. This approach is guided by the company’s core values of strong management and transparency. The management team at Susesea Bulk remain keenly aware that success depends greatly on achieving business objectives, meeting the needs of staff and the surrounding communities, and protecting the environment.
“Zero-emission shipping is a hot and crucial topic in our industry,” Mr Karahasan said. “Like many ship owners, we are focused on optimising the performance of our fleet, including the installation of new technologies and application of silicon-based paints to improve efficiency of our ships.
“Additionally, we are investing in newbuilds and modern second-hand vessels only, so we are aiming to charter younger ships with lower emissions. This is a shared responsibility that requires careful monitoring. While the dry bulk sector has, in my opinion, successfully met the mandatory IMO regulations, achieving the IMO’s decarbonisation targets will be still be a significant challenge for us.”
The company also supports sustainable projects such as a carbon levies or similar regulatory incentives that promote the decarbonisation of shipping on a level playing field. Susesea Bulk also promotes
the offsetting of emissions, which can serve as a catalyst in the transition to a permanent carbon-free solution.
Partnerships to prosper
The company maintains strong relationships with customers around the world and has been involved with many important and effective projects. There are far too many success stories to draw attention to just one, according to Mr Karahasan.
“Our capabilities are evident in our overall performance,” he explained. “We achieve the results that often take others longer to get. By demonstrating our efficiency and expertise, we constantly deliver on complex projects and innovative solutions. This showcases our adaptability and capacity to excel.”
On the other side of the supply chain, Susesea Bulk strives to maintain a robust relationship with suppliers, as any successful company, especially one with an international footprint, must.
“We maintain an open and welcoming approach with all potential partners,” explained Mr Karahasan. “We choose to do business with professional and reliable companies that share our values. For example, we have a commitment to timely, or even early, payments, which enhances our trust and reliability. Moreover, we strive to build personal connections with our suppliers and business partners to ensure long-term collaboration.”
Forward focused
Looking ahead, Susesea Bulk will continue to concentrate on its areas of expertise. That is, to expand both its managed and chartered fleets within the dry bulk segments. The company is also working on setting up a third-party technical ship management business.
“The secret to our success is that we focus on what we know best, which is dry bulk,” Mr Karahasan reflected. “One day, we will diversify our fleet into other segments , maybe tankers or containers, but at the moment, we want to keep that focus. Ultimately, we want longevity in the market and to be around for a long time – we want to pass this company on to the next generation.”
On the topic of longevity, one of the clear strengths of Susesea Bulk is that, though it may be a relatively young company, its personnel have a high level of expertise. Mr Karahasan himself brings to the table
over three decades of experience in shipping.
“I’ve always been on the commercial side, and I have enjoyed every moment of my last 30 to 35 years of shipping life,” he concluded. “What excites me most about my job is the opportunity to engage with global business networks. The dynamic nature of working with colleagues and partners from all over the world is both stimulating and motivating.” n
SEAVEN I PROFILE
Seaven Tanker and Dry Management has 21 years of experience managing ships on a global scale. Today, the company operates with a strong commitment to sustainability. Commercial Director Konstantinos Antoniou discussed how this has impacted the company’s daily operations, during an in-depth interview with Inside Marine. Report by Imogen Ward.
Over the years, Seaven Tanker and Dry Management has developed a portfolio of small- to medium-sized modern oil tanks and cement carriers.
“Our fleet continues to expand,” said Commercial Director Konstantinos Antoniou. “We currently have 11 oil/chemical tankers, and seven cement carriers. Additionally, we have time charter contracts on four more vessels to cover an increase in demand from our customers.”
Originally established in 2003 under the name Evia Petrol, Seaven is a worldrenowned ship management company with a dedication to health, safety and operational excellence.
“Today, we operate with a robust fleet, specialising in the transportation of oil, chemicals and cement,” added Mr Antoniou. “We are primarily present in the Mediterranean, Black Sea and North European ports, flying predominantly Greek and Panamanian flags.”
Strategic growth
Although the company currently operates with a fleet of 20, this number is set to increase later this year, with the delivery of a second-hand cement carrier.
This is just the beginning of what Seaven has planned for its fleet. In line with its strong commitment to sustainability, the company intends to upgrade all of its vessels to improve fuel efficiency.
“Over the next five years, we will acquire new vessels and upgrade our current fleet, in order to achieve an average fuel consumption reduction of 15 per cent,”
explained Mr Antoniou. “This investment represents a significant capital expenditure, and although the immediate outlay is high – with a budget of $100 million – we are confident that this will be offset by a significant reduction in fuel expenses over a longer period.”
In line with its strategy for environmental management, Seaven believes in taking a proactive approach to these issues (especially when it comes to taking effective control, management and responsibility for the disposal of fleet waste).
“We have a very thorough waste management system, which is diligently implemented throughout our entire fleet and complies with both international and local regulations governing waste and sewage treatment and disposal,” commented Mr Antoniou. “Our dedication to environmental responsibility is underscored by our adherence to these regulations, and we work hard to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the environment.
“We recognised the potential risks associated with the inadvertent transfer of species via ballast water, and we were inspired to make a change. By adopting closed-loop scrubbing systems, not only do we eliminate the discharge of additional fluids typical of open-loop alternatives, but we also reduce the need for periodic removal and disposal of hazardous waste , further minimising our environmental impact.”
Awarded in recognition
Seaven continues to uphold and comply with industry-wide environmental regulations and best practices. In order to do so effectively, the company monitors and mitigates its own environmental impact to successfully minimise its emissions.
“Seaven has devised a strong energy and environmental policy that serves as a guiding beacon for our operations, emphasising the augmentation of energy efficiency and reduction of our ecological footprint,” said Mr Antoniou. “As a prominent entity within the maritime market, we recognise our duty to diminish our carbon intensity footprint and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from our fleet.”
In recognition of Seaven’s accomplishments relating to safety, quality and environmental performance, the company was presented with the Green Award. This significant milestone saw Seaven become the first company worldwide with vessels under 10,000DWT to receive the Green Award.
This award recognises leaders within the industry that are contributing to the global sustainability of waterborne transport. The certification also acts as an incentive for other shipowners and operators who want to do more to improve their own impact.
“ We recognise the need for sustainability and commercial viability in the shipping industry,” commented Mr Antoniou. “Everything we do is completed with careful consideration of the environment.”
A world-class strategy
Seaven developed a clear business strategy to align with this commitment, one which is positioned at the intersection of sustainability and profitability.
“The strategy perfectly underlines our commitment to long-term resilience and value creation for stakeholders,” explained Mr Antoniou. “Our comprehensive
approach emphasises the deployment of fuel-efficient vessels, prioritises the safety of our seafarers and cargo, and ensures strict compliance with global regulations.
“Making the first step forward, we recently engaged with a third-party provider to conduct climate change scenario analysis tailored to our company.”
As part of this assessment, Seaven deemed it necessary to make adjustments to its operations to improve air and water quality.
The company has also implemented stringent technical management policies and procedures which were designed to prevent pollution. If, in the rare event, an accidental spill occurred, then Seaven has protocols in place to swiftly minimise environmental damage.
“With the ultimate objective being zero spill incidents, all our vessels abide by our
technical management policies, in order to avoid any spillages,” said Mr Antoniou. “We have successfully achieved this over the years, and hope 2024 will be another spill-free year.”
Steering into the future, Seaven intends to continue progression of its greener activities, whilst prioritising its customers, employees and cargo.
“Looking ahead, we recognise the urgency of addressing climate change, and our focus on ensuring energy security for our customers remains paramount,” said Mr Antoniou. “We pride ourselves on our ability to navigate these challenges while maintaining the uninterrupted flow of energy globally.
“Over the last four years, especially, we have witnessed exponential growth, and we intend to improve the organisation of our departments to correctly accommodate that growth and improve communications across the board.
“We will also continue to strive for efficiency, while investing in new technologies and opportunities to meet the demands of our customers and improve our environmental impact.”
Reflecting back on his time at Seaven, Mr Antoniou was especially thankful for the opportunities to progress.
“In the last year, my role has changed from Chartering Manager to Commercial Director,” explained Mr Antoniou, in conclusion. “That experience has given me a more comprehensive understanding of the business, for which I am truly grateful.”n
Commercial Director Konstantinos Antoniou
OKEE Maritime is a young and innovative ship-owning company, supported by its sister-company OKEE Shipmanagement. Based in Hamburg, Germany, the group is focused on operating container vessels in regional feeder services, as well as product tankers around the world. General Manager Captain Dmytro Chekhovskyy discussed growth and future plans. Report by Antonia Cole.
Starting as a shipowner in 2016, OKEE Maritime (OM) acquired its first vessel, a 1,700 TEU container ship. Step-by-step OM had expanded to own another four container vessels, when it founded OKEE Shipmanagement (OSM) to steadily increase the technical knowhow and competence.
By 2020, OM had a fleet of nine vessels and was operating most of them through OSM, while continuing to cooperate also with other third-party managers. The development of both companies, OM and OSM, enabled the group to grow steadily and successfully.
“Using the expertise of OM and OSM, we have also been able to source and support marine tech start-ups that are helpful to our daily business,” said General Manager Captain Dmytro Chekhovskyy. “We have been very successful in this VC investing so far, which is important for the future of the company. At OKEE, we are always open to embracing new technology and innovations within the industry.”
“We rely on technology and expertise from StormGeo to efficiently plan, execute and monitor our voyage performance. This timely support ensures we stay competitive and environmentally compliant, while maintaining transparency and high-quality services.”
– General Manager Dmytro Chekhovskyy
OKEE also now has two MR tankers, which were bought in 2022, as well as some third-party container vessels under management.
Small and successful
With offices in Hamburg and Zurich, OKEE employs 16 people onshore and around 200 on board vessels. The group is comprised of three companies: OM, OSM and OKEE Dry Chartering (ODC). All investments are commercially managed by OM, with OSM acting as a technical manager on the group’s own vessels and third-party ships.
ODC then oversees the group’s dry chartering services, offering a highquality and efficient service. Overall, OKEE generates an annual turnover of approxi mately $50 million and has done so for the past couple of years.
“Although we have been successful, we are still a relatively small company,” explained Captain Chekhovskyy. “This factor, however, is our strength.
We benefit from our smaller size, along with solid financials and a diversified and motivated team.
“We will probably not be forerunners in ordering new high-specification vessels, but there are still thousands of older vessels that are high-quality and very effective. It is much more sustainable to utilise existing vessels, upgrading them with modern technology, than it is to build an entirely new ship. We are able to wor k closely with technology companies to improve and optimise our vessels.”
The group was founded by Jan Wolff and Georg von Rantzau. Their good relationship and synergies between them stood as the starting point for OKEE’s cult ure of collaboration. The office is set up with everyone on one large table, fostering a sense of community and enabling effective communication.
“We all sit together, from technical to commercial managers,” added Captain Chekhovskyy. “Everyone has their own set of skills and talents, and with this setup, we can benefit from them all. There are a lot of experienced people here, as well as many young people. This mix allows us to take the foundations of shipping and modernise them to suit the future of the evolving market.”
Doing it differently
As a group that focuses on innovation and development, two years ago OKEE completely renewed OSM. Only two years after its establishment, OKEE decided to reimagine the company’s structure and rebuild it from scratch.
“It was difficult at first, but it was a massive leap forward for the group,” commented Captain Chekhovskyy. “Wha t we have now is a company that we can effectively manage to provide excellent service. We have introduced a lot of new technologies and software, streamlining operations and improving capabilities. At OKEE, we are always striving to enhance and refine our services, and we are not afraid to take action in order to do so.”
OSM is currently managing a selection of ‘heavy’ ships, one of which is 24 years old. This vessel is trading in the Indian Ocean, between small islands, and OSM’s services enable the ship to run efficiently and reliably. The company ensures that all the appropriate facilities, supplies and people are prepared to support the vessels operations.
The competitive OpEx still allows OKEE to provide larger salaries and better amenities for seafarers whilst away. It is important to OKEE that it is properly supporting all crew that work on its vessels, especially since many internal employees have a background in seafaring. The company understands the requirements of the job and ensures that staff are well looked after.
“We also benefit from the fact that we are a diverse company in terms of our nationalities,” continued Captain Chekhovskyy. “We are able to speak the same language as many of the crew. A lot of the time, seafarers don’t feel confident enough to call management companies, due to the language barrier. This means they are prevented from expressing their concerns or needs whilst at sea. We are available 24/7 for our crews, either by phone or message, which really highlights our dedication to crew wellbeing.”
Consequently, the phone usually does ring more often. However, this helps the team grow.
OKEE also has a new approach to purchasing, which sets it apart in the maritime industry. OKEE actively uses the secondhand market for vessel equipment, driven by both economic and environmental considerations. This strategy not only reduces costs but also contributes to sustainability by promoting the reuse and recycling of equipment.
OKEE has built up a robust relationship with several companies in India that supply fullyrenovated radio and nautical equipment. By opting for high-quality, refurbished items instead of new ones, OKEE is able to maintain the same high standards of service at a significantly lower cost.
Transparency and trust
The group is committed to being transparent in all operations, building trust with customers and suppliers. OKEE
believes that trust is the foundation of long-term relationships and therefore, is honest and reliable in all projects.
“We strive to offer a more personal service,” said Captain Chekhovskyy. “Our focus isn’t on growing the company, it is on providing high-quality and reputable service to everyone we work with. We share our ideas and knowledge with our partners, so that we can all succeed together. We strongly respect our partners and are aware of the big variety of strength we find amongst our partners.”
Through regular calls and improvingly quick response times, OKEE is able to form reliable relationships with suppliers and partners, both new and old. The group’s strategy involves collaborating with other smaller
companies and creating partnerships based on mutual respect and honesty.
Going forward, OKEE plans to maintain these relationships, whilst also taking on more third-party vessels for ship management. Additionally, the group will continue to utilise and integrate new technologies like AI, driving OKEE into the future.
“ We have built a solid foundation at OKEE, supported by talented staff,” added Captain Chekhovskyy, in conclusion.
“I enjoy facing the challenges of the shipping industry with my team and meeting new people from all around the world. I feel as though I have the opportunity to make a real positive impact on the sector at OKEE, which makes my work very rewarding.”
n
Geogas Group is divided into three branches: Geogas Trading, Geogas Maritime and Geogas Entreprise. Additionally, the Group is a 50% shareholder in the Marseille-based ship management company Gazocean. Deputy CEO Victoire Boudet, Technical Department Engineer Antoine Ratouis and Fleet Manager Jean-Marc Baudart discussed ship owning, gas transportation and trading. Report by Antonia Cole.
Geogas Group is committed to the safe and sustainable transportation of liquid gases, Deputy CEO Victoire Boudet said: “Liquified gas is the key to progressing the energy transition. Not only have we been working to limit the impact of LPG transportation, but we have also invested in LNG carriers to expand our capabilities as a group. This has enabled us to operate more sustainably whilst serving clients more effectively.”
Founded in 1979, Geogas is a leader in the safe supply of LPG to customers around the world. Based in Switzerland, the group covers both regional and long-haul journeys, operating with activity on every continent. There are 70 people employed across Geogas Trading and Geogas Maritime. Geogas Entreprise has a workforce of over 400 people and Gazocean employs another 150.
Geogas manages a fleet of 70 LPG vessels, with capacities ranging from 4,000m3 to 91,000m3. The modern and technologically a dvanced fleet is able to manage various
gas sizes and types including pressurised, semi-refrigerated and fully refrigerated gas. Additionally, the group co-owns eight 174,000m3 LNG carriers with NYK.
Per year, Geogas trades and transports 7.2 million tonnes of LPG, which equates to more than five per cent of the world’s seaborne volume. This generates a turnover of four billion US dollars.
“In all of our operations we are committed to serving our customers, protecting the environment and strengthening communities,” added Ms Boudet. “Our vision is to deliver liquified gases across the globe in the safest and most sustainable way possible. Our readiness to adopt new innovations and techniques sets us apart from the industry.”
Optimising transport
One of the ways in which Geogas is operating more sustainably is through weather routing technology. The group has been deploying weather routing advice and tools for oceanic passage for over 15 years. As modern ships generally have smaller power margins or are restricted due to EEXI regulations, ship progression is affected to a greater extent when facing harsh winds, waves or currents. Therefore, navigation becomes much more important. Weather routing optimises fuel consumption and journey times,
minimising environmental impacts and improving safety.
“Weather routing allows us to identify opportunities to run vessels more efficiently while at sea,” explained Technical Department Engineer Antoine Ratouis.
“We work with our partners to improve
routing quality, using historical data to forecast more accurately. However, the safety and security of vessels and crew remain a priority and so the Master is ultimately in command.”
Additionally, Geogas is implementing CO2 reduction equipment into operations. Scrubbers are being used to remove particulate matter, such as sulphur oxide, from exhaust systems. Carbon capture and storage technology prospects also significantly improve the sustainability of Geogas’ operations, promoting more environmentally focused travel.
“Working with sustainable propulsion company Beyond the Sea, we have been investigating and installing innovative kite traction systems into our vessels,” con -
AZRA TECH
Azra Tech and Geogas Maritime deploy a groundbreaking collaboration for biocide-free coating technology aboard the LPG Laperouse, demonstrating significant reductions in power consumption. We are excited to partner with Geogas to deliver an efficient, sustainable solution that significantly reduces carbon footprints.
editorial mention
tinued Mr Ratouis. “This equipment aims to save an average of 20 per cent on fuel and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.”
The group has also been exploring the use of sustainable hull paint and dual fuel propulsion. These work to improve the efficiency of vessels, lowering emissions and facilitating flexibility.
Exploring possibilities
Recently, Geogas has made two major investments. The first being the acquisition of a gas distribution network in the Pacific, expanding the group’s global reach, flexibility and capabilities.
The second is a 50% joint venture with NYK, building eight LNG carriers. These vessels are time chartered out to TotalEnergies and Edison, reducing emissions in the maritime and heavy road transport sectors.
“Although we are focused on LPG, it is important for us to explore the benefits of other fuels like LNG and ammonia,” commented Fleet Manager Jean-Marc Baudart.
“As an independent group, we can take advantage of opportunities and have the ability to make quick decisions in response to market advancements.
This is what allows us to stay ahead of the industry. For example, most of our newbuilds are ammonia-prepared and equipped with CO2 reduction technology.”
Geogas has extended its fleet versatility towards ammonia cargo opportunities. By developing ammonia-prepared vessels, the group is equipped for the rising interest in ammonia propulsion and transport. This means that the ships are designed and constructed in a way that allows them to be converted to use ammonia for fuel at a later date, and that they can transport ammonia as cargo at any time.
Geogas’ ships received Bureau Veritas’ ammonia-prepared notation, confirming the fuel tanks, handling equipment and vapour treatment installations will accommodate future ammonia propulsion.
“At Geogas, we are committed to promoting greener technologies in our ESG
objectives,” added Mr Baudart. “LPG, LNG and ammonia gas fuels all support us in achieving these objectives. We are convinced that liquified gas is key in supporting the energy transition, which is why we will continue to develop ideas and progress the industry.
“Whilst the market is not ready for ammonia yet, due to its hazardous nature, we believe there will soon be significant evolutions with this fuel. Ammonia is also a very economical way of transporting hydrogen, which is a rapidly growing market. While the future of fuel is uncertain, being ammonia-prepared opens the door to promising solutions.”
Decarbonising shipping
Geogas plans to be a major player in the green energy transition, with natural gas and LPG playing key parts in making clean energy and power generation a reality around the globe. LPG is a clean-burning fuel and emits fewer harmful emissions than
conventional fossil fuels. It is also safe to handle and easily transported, giving access to remote users and communities.
“LPG fuel holds so much potential as a sustainable alternative,” said Ms Boudet. “Not only is it low-carbon, but it also improves indoor and outdoor air quality, as well as preventing deforestation. However, we are always open to diversification and exploring new possibilities for alternative fuels, such as with our recent venture into LNG ship owning.
“As we are fully dedicated to the decarbonisation of the planet, it is important that we utilise market innovations and research to offer the best options to our
clients. Geogas aims to position itself at the front of industry developments and lead others to a more sustainable future.”
The group hopes to continue its growth, reaching wider and more diverse markets with clean fuel. Geogas works with partners to promote the use of sustainable fuels throughout the industry.
“The world of shipping is at the centre of society as a whole,” continued Ms Boudet, in conclusion. “Having an impact on the industry is really exciting as it affects everyone in both business and daily life. I’m looking forward to seeing what else we can achieve here at Geogas.”
OSM Thome has been a world-leading ship and crew management company since 1989. Ship Management Group was founded in January 2023, to focus on boutique passenger ship management services for ocean and river cruise vessels. “SMG's strength lies not in its longevity, but in its innovation, fresh perspective and the extensive experience of its personnel, making it the ideal partner for OSM Thome.” Hannah Barnett learnt this, and more, from SMG Founder & CEO Jim Barreiro de León, OSM Thome Deputy COO Stig Morten Helland and OSM Thome Chief Marine Services Officer Tommy Olofsen.
The partnership between OSM Thome and Ship Management Group, formalised in July 2024, will focus on the cruise and river management sectors.
Leveraging SMG’s niche expertise and OSM Thome’s robust infrastructure, it is a perfect match.
“We are the ones with the cruise ship connections,” said Jim Barreiro de León, CEO of SMG. “We are five executives, with over 30 years’ experience each, committed to providing cruise management services to the ocean and the river segments. There is not one other cruise management company that I know of that provides services to both oceans and rivers. With OSM Thome’s infrastructure and being the world’s leading crew manager, we can tap into
each other’s expertise and resources to address market challenges.”
Ultimately, the collaboration aims to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the cruise industry. Collaborative opportunities will be explored across various domains, including technical management, crewing, travel, insurance, project management and procurement services. Comprehensive and innovative solutions will be tailored to the unique needs of each customer.
Back to basics
SMG was founded by veterans of the cruise industry last year, with the concept to
return to the basics of ship management by offering services to niche operators. he company was soon approached by OSM Thome.
“We found this joint venture attractive because it allowed us to enter into a new segment where we currently have very limited experience, and to do so with some real cruise experts makes a lot of sense,” Stig Morten Helland, Deputy COO of OSM Thome, said. “There are mutual benefits. Where one side comes with expertise and the segment knowledge, the other comes with muscle, capacity, network and infrastructure.”
Indeed, the cruise sector is a unique segment with its own demands, criteria and requirements. So, OSM Thome was keen to find the right partner to help it to move successfully into the sector.
“There are many ship managers that have tried to become cruise and river cruise managers with limited success,” said Mr Helland. “This partnership comes with something different. The experts, the ones with the core knowledge, are
the ones that engage with the owners. We will work through SMG to provide our support and services. So, from our point of view, this is a very elegant way for us to get involved in a market where there is a high barrier of entry. Many have failed; we want to do this right.”
One of the key elements of the collaboration is that SMG will contract cruise ship owners and manage the ships, while OSM will operate in the background, to provide support, services and capacity.
“This is SMG, powered by OSM Thome,” as Mr Helland put it.
Cruise and crews
SMG has a head office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and three major clients. OSM Thome is based in Norway and currently manages more than 900 ships globally, with 31,000 employees, 29,000 of them seafarers.
“The benefit to SMG is that we come with scale,” explained Tommy Olofsen, OSM Thome Chief Marine Services Officer.
“Scale is relevant in terms of delivering cost efficient, effective solutions, but
CEOofOSMThome
also for presence and getting access to industry stakeholders, cruise and river ship owners and other decision makers.”
“We are deeply client-centric,” added Mr Barreiro de León. “Being free from corporate constraints allows us the flexibility to prioritise what's best for our clients, rather than being compelled to support internal organisational verticals.”
OSM Thome is renowned throughout the industry for its high staff welfare standards. The company is focused on treating seafarers well and therefore has a high employee retention rate.
“That is one of the features which has set OSM Thome apart from other ship managers,” said Mr Helland. “Our crew has a sense of loyalty, knowing that they’re working for a company which cares for them.”
No supply chain secrets
Both companies also value a close relationship with suppliers, viewing such relationships as a vital part of success.
OSM Thome designed aggregated procurement platform Axia to benefit suppliers, ship owners and customers alike.
“It means we can allocate more volume to the best service providers,” explained Mr Olofsen, “giving them security and consistency. And for us and our clients, we have the best prices. It also benefits ESG requirements thanks to knowing the quality of suppliers. Axia provides a totally transparent platform, which is unique because it’s open for both our suppliers and customers. Everyone has a full sense of what we’re doing. We’re not hiding anything.”
“Axia is one of the many features as to why we thought it would be interesting to work with OSM Thome,” Mr Barreiro
de León added. “We are a boutique company for niche operators, yet at the same time, we can compete with the larger players because we have the infrastructure network. That puts us in a very flexible position to shift gears, if we have to. Moreover, our cruise ship suppliers will gain from integrating with the Axia system, which will, in turn, extend greater purchasing power benefits to our cruise clients.”
The companies are expecting to launch their first jointly managed cruise ship(s) in Q1 of 2025, with a few more planned later in the year. OSM Thome will be able to
make good uses of its innovative Crew Match application, with more than 140,000 registered seafarers.
“Plus, 20,000 of those are looking for jobs in the cruise and river cruise industry,” said Mr Helland. “So, we are uniquely placed to support SMG as it expands. I don’t think any other outfit has anything like this in the world.”
Indeed, the chance to make a difference i n the lives of people directly or indirectly employed by both companies is a highly motivating factor for the partnership to flourish.
“I am driven by creating opportunities and helping people by creating careers of the future in a sustainable way,” said Mr Olofsen. “It is truly very rewarding to hire a young cadet and see them end up in a senior role.”
“In today's corporate landscape, it's rare to find a large corporation that not only claims to care about its crew but genuinely demonstrates this care through thoughtful actions – and they just happen to be great people as well,” Mr Barreiro de León concluded. “This makes our work enjoyable and fulfilling. We're not here to reinvent the industry or save the world, but there are definitely more pragmatic, logical and common-sense ways to do things. There's nothing better than working every day with people you like and clients you appreciate in a positive environment.” n
Uniteam Marine is an international ship management company with almost 40 years of maritime industry experience. The company offers high-quality services to ship owners and managers across a range of countries. Managing Director John Hadjiparaskevas discussed growth and the development of services. Report by Antonia Cole.
Over the past year, Uniteam Marine has made significant strides in enhancing service capabilities and operational resilience, Managing Director John Hadjiparaskevas said: “We have improved our digital capabilities through the advancement to modern fleet management software and remote monitoring platforms ensuring that our customers have peace of mind regarding the newly adopted regulatory frameworks such as the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and FuelEU Maritime.”
Headquartered in Cyprus, the company has offices in key maritime locations including Germany, Ukraine, Singapore, the Philippines and Myanmar. This enables Uniteam Marine to offer reliable services
to clients worldwide, building up long-term relationships. With a diverse fleet of bulk carriers and containerships, plus, to a lesser extent, chemical and oil tankers, as well as other specialised dry vessels, the company provides full technical, crew and administrative management services.
Uniteam Marine has access to over 5,000 seafarers and 300 shore-based professionals to support its operations.
Having managed more than 160 vessels, the company is experienced in delivering tailored solutions.
“Through our strategic partnerships, we deliver vital support and reassurance to our clients so they can focus on their core business,” added Mr Hadjiparaskevas. “Our in-house capabili ties, combined with
our extensive network of long-standing partnerships with trusted manning agencies, allow us to cater to the specific needs and nationality preferences of our international clients, making operations smoother and more effective.”
Skilled services
With experience supporting clients both on land and at sea, Uniteam Marine is committed to optimising quality, cost| -effi ciency, profitability and control. The company only sources highly-skilled seafarers to guarantee the smooth running of operations and further develops crew members’ skills through in-house training facilities.
The company also has a strong presence in the Myanmar seafarers’ market, with a leading recruitment and placement service. The sourcing of skilled, professional seafarers allows Uniteam Marine to offer clients efficient and effective services with low risk, giving the company a competitive advantage.
“One of our biggest challenges is maintaining the highest levels of crew competency and morale in an increasingly
“By leveraging the multidisciplinary expertise of our shore-based employees, we maintain high standards across all levels of our operations,” explained Mr Hadjiparaskevas. “Our team consists of hands-on experts experienced with various vessel types. The size and structure of our company enables our top management to remain highly accessible and responsive, ensuring swift resolutions for customers.”
regulated and resource-intensive environment,” continued Mr Hadjiparaskevas.
“While the development of the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship Code is underway, and aims to advance automation in shipping, we believe that the human element will continue to play a crucial role in the industry for the foreseeable future. Crew members will remain an essential part of maritime operations for many years, ensuring safety, adaptability, and expertise that cannot be replaced.”
As well as investing in training opportunities, Uniteam Marine offers crew mental health and welfare initiatives. This ensures that crew are engaged and supported in their work. Fostering a sense of community and a positive work environment attracts the top talent to Uniteam Marine, facilitating premium services.
Safety systems
Uniteam Marine is committed to employee welfare and the holistic safety of all operations, rooted in its extensive maritime experience. The company has implemented rigorous safety management systems and additional competency programmes to ensure employees are fully equipped for all situations.
“We foster a robust safety culture among all our employees,” commented
Mr Hadjiparaskevas. “By prioritising effective communication between ship and shore, we allow for quick decision-making and support when needed. Safety and quality are intrinsically linked. Our commitment to operational excellence ensures that safety measures are constantly being upheld, allowing us to navigate challenges with confidence.”
In partnership with a multinational oil company, Uniteam Marine has advanced its safety and simulation capabilities at an offshore oil and gas field in Guyana. The company has developed and launched a range of tailored training services. These specialised programmes focus on everything from process safety management and emergency response to equipment operation and maintenance.
Uniteam Marine is looking to expand upon this service to include advanced simulation technologies and modules adapted to the specific needs of the offshore oil and gas
sector. This will consolidate the company’s position as a trusted partner whilst also evolving the safety and efficiency of operations.
Additionally, the company has recently started an ambitious initiative to transform its interaction with corporate data by 2025. Called the Corporate Data Interaction System, this new technology utilises an AI-driven chatbot to assist teams. This software is able to answer questions and deliver insights on specific situations immediately.
“In today’s data-driven landscape, information is crucial to decision-making,” added Mr Hadjiparaskevas. “Our interconnected databanks will offer a wide range of capabilities, enabling users to extract critical information. For example, team members will be able to ask questions surrounding incident analysis, employee
satisfaction and budget prediction. This initiative represents a significant step forward in leveraging technology to enhance our operational efficiency, as well as safety and quality standards.”
Sustainable solutions
From large-scale projects in design, newbuilds and retrofits to managing vessels, providing customised offshore simulators and competency toolboxes, Uniteam Marine offers a comprehensive portfolio of services to the shipping and offshore industry. In Latin America, the company has been involved in the construction, shipping and operation of a full-mission offshore process simulator for the oil and gas industry. Uniteam Marine plans to expand this presence into the EMEA region soon.
Uniteam Marine has also expanded its service offerings to include the management of alternative-fuel vessels. Through establishing strategic partnerships, the company has been able to adapt systems and procedures to accommodate the configurations of new vessels.
“Within our services, we try to incorporate sustainability with a comprehensive environmental, social and governance
strategy,” said Mr Hadjiparaskevas. “We are dedicated to navigating the evolving regulatory landscape, including the IMO’s revised GHG strategy and the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. Supporting communities is also really important to us. Recently, we launched a sponsorship programme for the children of our employees who excel in sports, encouraging the talent of the next generation.”
Keen to formalise its social responsibility in Myanmar, in 2008 Uniteam Marine’s Founder Mr Gerhard Ruether founded the non-profit organisation Myanmar Development Aid eV (MDA). MDA operates two orphanages in Myanmar, providing an environment that empowers children to thrive. Here, children have access to education, healthcare and emotional support. Uniteam also offered humanitarian aid to the seafarers and their families affected by Typhoon Yagi.
“What excites me most about my role
is the opportunity to drive positive change,” continued Mr Hadjiparaskevas, in conclusion. “I am motivated by the responsibility to not only improve ship management, but also make a meaningful impact on the communities in which we operate.
“Our future objectives focus on expanding our presence in specialised shipping sectors and enhancing our technical capabilities. We aim to provide innovative tools and foster partnerships that empower our customers to operate their assets at the highest standards, while ensuring safety and profitability.” n
The UNITED GROUP consists of four companies: United Heavy Lift, United Wind Logistics, United Engineering Solutions and United Heavy Transport. The individual divisions combine to deliver comprehensive maritime transport solutions. Managing Director Andreas Rolner discussed new vessels and future plans, in conversation with Antonia Cole.
United Heavy Lift (UHL) has recently completed the delivery of the newly built vessels UHL Fable, Managing Director Andreas Rolner said: “This milestone concludes our newbuilding series of 19 F900 Eco-Lifters, which is a really big achievement for us. The vessels have a reduced environmental impact, setting a precedent for more sustainable shipping within the sector.”
Founded in 2015, the UNITED GROUP is a global leader of the heavy lifting sector. The group is headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, with 12 overseas offices and approximately 150 employees.
The synergy between the four divisions of USG enables the company to offer clients a specialised and effective service that guarantees satisfaction. UHL is the largest division, focusing on the transportation of heavy and oversized project cargoes. With
a fleet of over 20 vessels, UHL serves various industries across the globe.
United Heavy Transport (UHT) provides integrated solutions and consulting services for maritime transport. Then, United Engineering Solutions (UES) supports the group through design services.
United Wind
Logistics (UWL) specialises in the ocean transport of wind components including blades, nacelles, towers and foundations. Operating three deck carriers, UWL offers fully integrated logistic concepts for the offshore wind industry.
“At the UNITED GROUP, we are dedicated to providing safe, high-quality and environmentally friendly ocean transport,” added Mr Rolner. “Through each segment of the group, we work to deliver a service that meets all our customers’ individual needs, leading to long-term business relationships.”
Updating the fleet
With the completion of UHL’s F900 Eco-Lifter fleet, the UNITED GROUP is prepared to offer sustainable and efficient shipping services to clients. The group aims to prevent environmental harm in operations, which is why it has invested into this low-impact fleet of vessels.
“The introduction of these ships allows us to make a significant impact on the sustainability standards of the industry,” explained Mr Rolner. “We are giving our partners the opportunity to transport goods in a way that is environmentally friendly, as well as helping them to meet
their own ESG targets. The shift to a more sustainable future is a collaborative effort and the completion of our Eco-Lifter fleet is a great step in the right direction.”
The UHL Fresh and UHL Fable are both new, state-of-the-art MPP heavy lift vessels, designed to complete journeys safely, quickly and sustainably. In the F900 Eco-Lifter, the main engine is IMO Tier III certified. So, up to 95% of NOX emissions will be washed out and diesel particles will be burnt off in catalysts. They also feature two 450 tonne cranes with a lifting capacity of up to 900 tonnes, in combination.
Additionally, the vessels offer especially low fuel consumption. Bunker consumptions of 7, 10 or 21 metric tonnes mean that the F900’s fuel usage is significantly lower than other vessels of a similar size. The two new Eco-Lifters also have the capability to run on biodiesel, which lowers particulate matter and reduces hydrocarbon emissions. The
use of biodiesel makes operation of the main engine carbon neutral.
“Both our new vessels will serve the global market, supporting the growing interest in eco-friendly breakbulk and heavy lift sea transportation,” continued Mr Rolner. “Now we’ve concluded the F900 fleet, we are already looking into the future. The UNITED GROUP is investigating new designs to improve vessels even further and create solutions for the next generation.”
Serving the customer
Currently, the UNITED GROUP is managing a wide variety of contracts. Many of which are long-term commitments, with some lasting until 2028. The company is looking to grow and develop its fleet further in order to support its growing success.
The UNITED GROUP has already completed an expansion of its overseas offices, extending global reach. This means that the company can communicate with clients locally, facilitating improved and more effective customer service internationally.
“Providing a high-quality service that fully satisfies our customers is one of our top priorities,” commented Mr Rolner. “Not only is our fleet of F900’s young, with an average fleet age of three years, but it is also incredibly redundant. As all 19 vessels are sister ships, it offers an enhanced flexibility when it comes to delays. We can easily exchange vessels, resulting in a quick and effective solution.”
The company also aims to serve customers by being open and transparent
about sustainability measures. Two years ago, the UNITED GROUP established an ESG department and has since released two sustainability reports. This fosters loyalty with clients aiming to minimise their own impact and promotes environmentally conscious values throughout the industry.
“We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint, as well as that of our customers,” added Mr Rolner. “Our goal is to be carbon neutral by 2050, and we are eager to do everything we can to achieve that.
Phasing out our older vessels has made a significant improvement already, but we are very future-focused and have a lot more planned in terms of limiting our environmental impact.”
Growing for the future
The UNITED GROUP offers an end-to-end service to customers, from advice on the intake of ships to guidance on preventing future delays. The company aims to get
involved early in the project’s development, allowing it to optimise schedules for maximum efficiency.
This builds up trust with the client, leading to larger contracts. When the UNITED GROUP receives a longer contract, it is then able to adapt and invest into vessels to suit individual needs. For example, specialised lifting beams can be installed to support operations, leading to more effective shipping.
“We want to be the partner of choice for everyone that we work with,” said Mr Rolner. “When it comes to quality, flexibility and sustainability, the UNITED GROUP upholds stringent standards. However, we are always looking to improve into the future and make our segment greener.
“As we serve the renewable energy industry, it is important for us to stay up to date with sustainable innovations so that we can support our clients. Together, we hope to get closer to a more environmentally friendly future.”
Despite being a younger company, celebrating its 10th anniversary next year, the
UNITED GROUP has already made a lot of progress in minimising its environmental impact. The group plans to continue this trend into the future, enhancing every aspect of operations.
“It’s been exciting to see how far we’ve come, and I look forward to what the next 10 years hold,” continued Mr Rolner, in conclusion. “We will continue investing into the latest innovations and utilising our skilled team to implement them. The UNITED GROUP is full of people who are committed to the group, and it’s great to see our hard work pay off.” n
Sea Pioneer is a Greek shipping company which supports its clients with professionally-operated bulkers and a superior tanker fleet, allowing for the safe, cost-effective and efficient transportation of cargo. Now, the company, is growing more than ever before. Leon Kallergis, Technical Manager, explained the details to Hannah Barnett.
The wider expansion process of the Sea Pioneer fleet began in 2022, when the company received three Kamsarmax carriers, and continued with the recent receipt of two newbuild MR Tankers from the Desan shipyard in Korea.
“The newbuilding projects are taking up a lot of our attention,” said Technical Manager Leon Kallergis. “It’s a big job. There is much to
be arranged and organised. A project on this scale would be a challenge for any company.
“From the initial plan and approval, to liaising with the site team that will monitor the vessels during the building stage, and so on. There is a lot of communication with the yard, working out how new technologies can be implemented on these vessels We must be careful to choose the right people, ones we trust.”
Sea Pioneer has made a large investment with an order of three new bulk carriers from the Oshema shipyard in Japan and four further MR tankers from KSC Shipyard in Korea. By February 2026, the fleet will consist of 18 ships. At the same time, the company is also regularly selling off older vessels, with two MR tankers and one Panamax Bulk carrier recently sold. The goal is to grow the fleet to 20 vessels.
“We try to sell ships which are a little bit older, in order to renew the fleet,” said
Mr Kallergis. “The target is, to reach 10 bulk carriers and 10 MR tankers by the end of 2026. Ultimately, we are an MR Tanker-oriented company, and we want to focus on trading this size of chemical tankers.”
Making moves
In order to incorporate its fleet expansion, Sea Pioneer must change several things about how it operates.
“18 ships are a large increase on a few years ago,” said Mr Kallergis. “As the vessels are increasing, so too are the employee
numbers. We now have dedicated personnel for environmental monitoring and collecting data. We were doing this before, but not in
such a detailed way and now we are setting targets alongside that data.”
Over the last six months, Sea Pioneer has also begun to digitalise all the data it collects from vessels and operations, both at sea and on shore. The company is in the process of installing new hardware
and software to accommodate all this change and growth.
“Before the delivery of the new vessels, we are trying to establish a really robust ERP solution,” Mr Kallergis explained. “This means connecting all operations on one platform for all of us to work together more smoothly and to minimise all the internal information coming and going. We hope this will mean each department will be fully updated about what is happening on each vessel.”
Sustainable options
In the rapidly changing world of shipping, any shipbuilder or broker needs to consider the environmental impact of a vessel.
As a result, Sea Pioneer’s new tankers are scrubber-ready, with the capacity to use them in the future.
“We are not installing scrubbers at this stage, because the consumption of these MR tankers is not that big,” Mr K explained. “Our vessel consumption is around 22 tonnes per day, compared with a VLCC vessel, which is around 60. It’s a huge difference.”
Similarly, the new MR Tankers are dual-fuel ready for the use of methanol and ammonia. As a relatively new innovation, the alternative fuel will be largely dependent on supply chain availability.
“The plan is to change to dual fuel, when bunker stations start selling it more widely,” said Mr Kallergis. “However, the main engine and generators will be already modified to burn this kind of fuel.”
The other important environmental modification in the new vessels will be seen from the hull-optimisation in the shipyard design. The hulls on the newbuilds are more
slender and therefore more efficient, more economical and less water-resistant.
“The other important thing to consider is the training of the crew,” Mr Kallergis added, “We are installing all these new
upgrades, but at the same time, the crew must know how to operate them efficiently; that is another challenge.”
Forging relationships
Any company going through so much growth and change, must be confident of a strong relationship with its suppliers. Sea Pioneer is no different and open communication is key.
“If we are transparent and clear with a supplier, then we see they also treat us the same way,” said Mr Kallergis. “This is our motto. These partners have helped us throughout the years. We share mutual trust and respect, and we always promise a fair negotiation that benefits both parties.
“We always recognise when a supplier goes above and beyond to helps us, by giving them a call or sending them a message to thank them. We invest a lot in the relationships between people. This is something I believe is missing nowadays from many companies in all sectors, which only offer an automated message when someone calls with an issue. We also pay on time, which is very important. We say 30 days, and it is 30 days.”
As a small, family-run business, Mr Kallergis is clear that Sea Pioneer is not about to lose its personal touch when it comes to clients, either. On the contrary, this is part of what makes the company stand out.
“We are transparent,” said Mr Kallergis. “We are not a big firm where it is impossible to reach the managers on the phone. This means the relationships we build with each client are stronger. If a customer is talking directly with the person making the decisions, it’s a more approachable and friendly experience overall. I think many clients like it and this approach makes us different from others.”
The shipping industry is entering a new era of digitisation and automation, something which will no doubt bring new challenges in its wake. Sea Pioneer is set to embrace this new era with a new fleet to match. But what keeps Mr Kallergis so motivated?
“First of all, I like the job,” he said, in conclusion. “That is very important in shipping. If someone doesn’t like it, they cannot do it. Every day there is a challenge to face, and I am required to be an on-the-spot problem solver. But this is exciting, satisfying and makes me feel good at the end of the day.”n
seven seas, five oceans, one voice
SHIPYARDS & ENGINEERING
A selection of company profiles from the shipyards and engineering sectors.
SEAmagine Hydrospace Corporation has entranced its customers with innovative, industry-leading submarines and submersibles that are out of this world. And now, with demand higher than ever, the company has adapted its designs to meet the increasing desire for bigger, bolder vessels. Co-Founder & Chairman Charles Kohnen shared insights into SEAmagine's innovative projects, discussed a pioneering marine research mission and more in this in-depth interview. Report by Imogen Ward.
The phenomena of submersibles continues to intrigue the world, drawing people in with the promise of revealing the hidden wonders of the deep blue sea.
SEAmagine Hydrospace Corporation
i s one of the top companies delivering on that promise, having already performed over 13,500 dives to date (more than all its competitors combined). The last 12 months have solidified this reputation, with SEAmagine introducing several new submersibles to the market.
“This past year, we have completed some great projects, and delivered the innovation that we are renowned for,” explained Co-Founder & Chairman Charles Kohnen. “There is an increasing demand, from both the scientific and the
leisure sectors for submersibles with a greater capacity, and we worked hard to make that possible.”
Exploring SEAmagine
SEAmagine was established in 1995 and has spent the last 29 years building an impeccable reputation for reliability, ingenuity and safety. Whether for leisure, tourism, scientific research, or search and recovery, the capabilities of SEAmagine’s submersibles are truly diverse.
The figures speak for themselves –some of SEAmagine’s clients have performed over 3,000 dives without lost time or technical faults. Whether small, large, shallow- or deep-ocean models, SEAmagine has developed a pioneering portfolio of world-class submersibles that
“The world has an innate fascination with the unknown, and we give professionals and the public the means to explore it”
everyone can enjoy. Additionally, each one can be semi-customized to accommodate the varying needs of clients quickly and efficiently.
The smallest option, Ocean Pearl – ideal for subsea or Coast Guard efforts – is a small but mighty two-person submersible. Capable of operating to a depth rating of between 100m-380m, the Ocean Pearl has an extremely low draft and rapid deployment.
On the other end of the scale, calling to the leisure and tourism industry, SEAmagine’s Aurora line, which offers a variety of sizes (accommodating three to nine passengers). Each model is renowned for its large spherical window, which helps ensure people enjoy the ultimate underwater experience.
SEAmagine designed the Aurora to easily reconfigure for unique depth and passenger requirements, which is one more way the company adapts to clients’ needs.
Underwater discovery
This year, the company completed yet another configuration of its Aurora offering, adapting an Aurora-90 model to seat five people.
“We have received a lot of requests for a higher capacity as underwater excursions become increasingly popular,” said Mr. Kohnen. “In response to that, we adapted the Aurora-90, adding a much bigger viewing sphere. ”
The company completed sea trials on this submersible in February of this year.
Another exciting development saw SEAmagine adapt its Aurora-80 for a large international marine research group. The spacious vessel – designed to carry three people to a depth of 1,300m – will be used for a five-year global marine exploration expedition focused on environmental assessment for protected marine preserves.
“Starting in the Pacific, the group will identify areas of interest for marine
preservation,” explained Mr. Kohnen. “Aiding them will be our fully equipped submersible, outfitted with a custom 8k pan and tilt camera, Schilling Orion manipulator, custom collection tray and equipment, and an eDNA (environmental DNA) sampling system.”
This is not the first time a SEAmagine submersible has been used for scientific research. In fact, this is a regular occurrence for the underwater expert. SEAmagine has even had the privilege of aiding scientific discoveries.
“Our clients have discovered new species using our equipment. One notable discovery was the first-ever sighting of a Prickly shark in French Polynesia, marking a significant scientific milestone for the region –it was like finding a zebra in Alaska,” commented Mr. Kohnen. “So, we are helping a large pool of clients drive their missions in research and discovery.
“On the flipside, we are seeing more clients from tourism and yachting using our submersibles for citizen science as well.”
Submersing together
Of course, these achievements would not have been possible without the continued loyalty of SEAmagine’s supply chain. Over the years, the company has established a resilient network of key suppliers – a large majority of which are locally based in California alongside SEAmagine.
“They have been working with us for many years and they have really become a part of our team,” said Mr. Kohnen. “On top of that, most of our production is done within an hour of the Los Angeles Basin, so we are very privileged to have such a strong and extensive manufacturing capability so close to our office. Without this amazing talent nearby, we could not be as flexible. ”
The company has worked diligently to develop these long-standing relationships with its suppliers – creating partnerships based on trust as it sought to develop the very best submersibles that exemplify a shared dedication to innovation, quality, and safety.
“There’s a lot more involved in the construction of a submersible than there is to a regular boat,” continued Mr. Kohnen. “There are so many important rules and regulations that we meet, and we can achieve that with the help of our suppliers.
“We are so grateful to every one of them. Blanson Ltd, who manufactures all our acrylic windows, has been a very helpful and strategic player. Innerspace Corporation has been instrumental, producing all our propulsion motors, as have JLP Manufacturing and JB Machine that have been helping us for many years with the machining and metal fabrication of custom parts and assemblies.”
Additionally, the company’s proximity to the Pacific Coast is hugely beneficial. SEAmagine can complete sea trials quickly and efficiently without having to leave the local area.
As the company looks to the future, Mr. Kohnen is confident that SEAmagine will have a prominent place for years to come: “There’s a long discussion to be had regarding the industry’s transition to unmanned vehicles. However, SEAmagine firmly believes that its technology will continue to play a vital role in the exploration, understanding, and stewardship of our oceans in the future.
“As we focus on the future, we intend to continue developing submersibles with expanded capabilities. The world has an innate fascination with the unknown, and we give professionals and the public the means to explore it.” n
Navalrocha has been a leader in ship repair and maintenance since it opened its doors more than two decades ago. Now, having experienced another year of success, the shipyard is gearing up to implement several key investments. Commercial & Project Management Director Sérgio Rodrigues explained more, in an interview with Inside Marine. Report by Imogen Ward.
After several years of record-breaking achievements, Navalrocha has deemed 2024 a year for investment.
“2022 was a record year, and last year we did even better,” said Commercial & Project Management Director Sérgio Rodrigues.
“We managed to repair an amazing 54 vessels. This year, we hope to improve on that figure even further and have lined up several important investments to help achieve this.”
Navalrocha is a world-renowned shipyard based at Lisbon Harbour in Portugal;
a geographical position that has afforded its own advantages.
“Here in Portugal, we are blessed with more than 300 days of sun each year,” commented Mr Rodrigues. “With our operations focused mainly outside, this weather is hugely beneficial and has a direct impact on the speed of the process.”
The company operates out of a modern yard that features a repair pier capable of processing vessels with a length of up to 120m and a draft of up to 5.5m. Having previously been operating with three dry docks (the largest of which, accepting vessels with a width of up to 173.5m), the shipyard recently reopened a fourth.
“We have been successful in reopening our fourth dry dock, which was previously
under renovation,” said Mr Rodrigues. “This is currently the smallest of our docks.”
Over the years, the company has built a reputation for its work on smaller, niche vessels. The newly reopened dry dock will play an important role in Navalrocha’s retention of this expertise.
Changing the status quo
As part of its strategies for investment, Navalrocha also recently expanded its crane capacity. Following dock four’s return to service, the shipyard added a new crane between docks three and four. This joins Navalrocha’s fleet of oth ercranes, which includes three heavyload fixed cranes that are assigned to the shipyard’s larger projects, and one
strategically located on its pier the capacity of our pier,” explained Mr Rodrigues. “Currently, we are limited to a vessel length of 120m, but we are in discussions with Lisbon Harbour to extend this to 140m to meet the ever-increasing size of modern vessels. We hope this development will be complete before the end of this year.”
Everything that Navalrocha has achieved so far – and is set to achieve – has been made possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of its suppliers and partners.
Navalrocha regards each one as a pivotal part of the team and expressed a huge amount of gratitude for their continued loyalty: “When we say they are a part of the team, we really mean it,” said Mr Rodrigues. “They understand our needs and work perfectly in correla tion with our operations. To ensure their continued trust and confidence in us, we offer open and direct communication with all of these companies.”
New possibilities
Having previously committed to expanding its presence in the LPG segment, Navalrocha is off to a great start with three LPG projects completed in the first quarter of this year. All these
vessels had a full blast before a siliconebased coating was applied to the hull, which is an environmentally friendly option perfect for ship hull antifouling and one that Navalrocha has extensive experience with.
“We are definitely stepping into the LPG market, and we hope our presence here will flourish,” said Mr Rodrigues. “We already have another two projects booked in.”
The LPG segment is just one of the areas that Navalrocha hopes to continue working in. With a vast amount of experience in the cruise industry, the company intends to continue repairing an average of six cruise ships a year.
Chemical carriers and the offshore sector are also of increasing interest to the shipyard. Just last year, the company was contracted to work on SERAYA, an offshore supply ship, and this year it has several dredging barges booked in.
“We are really looking forward to these projects, and we hope to be awarded even more dredging-based contracts in the future,” commented Mr Rodrigues. “Having just increased our dock clearance up to 2.5m, we feel we now have an added advantage in this area, as we have more room for thruster removal.”
Following the announcement of a new wind farm in Portugal, Navalrocha
also expects this to have an impact on the number of offshore vessels it services.
Green growth
In line with Portugal’s increasing commitment to green energy, Navalrocha is also making its own promises, including the vow to transition from wet sandblasting to hydroblasting.
“Wet sandblasting is the procedure we currently use for cleaning the vessels ready for marine coating,” explained Mr Rodrigues. “We are in the active process of transitioning to hydroblasting,
and we have two companies conducting tests on this alternative method.
“This will be a gradual adjustment, and we will endeavour to use both methods side-by-side until the time we have adequate equipment to take on hydroblasting full-time.”
The company believes a more generalised expansion is on the cards too. Following on from several years of successful growth, Navalrocha regards its position as stable for both its workload and its employees.
“Having reached a point of clear stability , we are now talking about what we can
do to increase the number of projects we complete in a year, and we are especially interested in drawing in more specialist vessels,” said Mr Rodrigues, in conclusion. “It is a challenge, but one that we are confident we can overcome.
“We have an amazing team of motivated individuals who believe in our goals and are working hard to make them happen. No matter what way the tide turns, we are ready .” n
IN-EKO
IN-EKO TEAM specialises in stainless steel equipment for wastewater treatment plants. The company offers pioneering microfiltration and filtration systems, phosphorus reduction services, and more. Head of Sales Aleš Vaverka discussed some of the company’s best innovations with Hannah Barnett.
Fundamental to the IN-EKO TEAM philosophy is a strong belief in the significance of its work.
“This is a company which values filtration,” explained Aleš Vaverka. “It’s very important, because conventional biological processes can remove only part of the substances from wastewater and there are strict limits for effluence. We have access to advanced filtration technology which can reduce phosphorus down to 0.1 milligrams per litre. This means less phosphorus in the mains water and less algae in the lakes and the rivers.”
The company operates in the wastewater systems sector worldwide and is a key player for microfiltration in Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania, while also present in America with established partners. All devices are designed and developed by in-house engineers with a host of experience in water filtration. Everything is driven by an emphasis on high-quality, innovative processes and comprehensive after-sales services.
“Nowadays, it is increasingly important to treat wastewater and return the treated water back into the process,”
said Mr Vaverka. “For our experts, it is becoming increasingly strategic to support our customers in mitigating the high environmental impact and reducing wastewater costs by reintegrating the water into the production process.”
Multi-faceted excellence
In 1995, IN-EKO emerged from the humblest of beginnings, starting with a few people and a vision to develop and deliver innovative solutions in water filtration.
Over the last 30 successful years, thanks to tenacity and a continual investment into R&D, the company has grown to more than 100 employees. IN-EKO now designs and builds devices for mechanical pre-treatment, secondary treatment, advanced tertiary treatment with disc filters and pile cloth disc filters, and quaternary treatment with membrane intelligent technologies. It has run projects on all continents.
“We have grown to be one of the biggest producers of drum microfiltration
IN-EKO TEAM I
systems worldwide,” Mr Vaverka said. “Our most common application is tertiary treatment at a municipal treatment plant. But we are also active in other segments like pulp and paper, where a lot of water is used, and we can save operational costs. Saving money is a very important part of what we do.”
IN-EKO also works on aquaculture projects, including fish farms, zoos and swimming pools. And, thanks to a close partnership with a notable Norwegian cruise ship wastewater purification business, the company is also active in the cruise sector. Indeed, IN-EKO currently has about 130 devices installed on cruise
ships around the world, including the world’s largest cruise ship, ICON OF THE SEAS.
“What is interesting, is that our very first filter was not installed at the tertiary treatment stage of a wastewater treatment plant but was used in an aquaculture application for a fish farm,” Mr Vaverka explained. “From that date, we succeeded not only with drum filters, but also with disc filters and pile cloth filters, to both enhance filtration capacity and allow customers to meet more stringent effluent parameters. We continue to stand by the customer's side to clean the water.”
IN-EKO’s installed devices now treat roughly 69 billion litres of water per day. A certain amount of this is recirculated into industrial applications and aquaculture, the rest flows further to the sea.
The company has multiple in-house departments and two operational headquarters: an HQ in Tisnov plus an office and laboratory in Opava, both in the Czech Republic. Everything is produced to a high technical standard and that is ensured by the company’s ISO9001 and ISO14001 certification.
“We take pride in the fact that all our devices are of Czech origin and are manufactured in our own facility in Tisnov,” added Mr Vaverka.
ESG guaranteed
A large portion of IN-EKO’s success comes from embracing sustainability and efficiency wherever possible. This commitment to innovation, creativity and environmental responsibility drives the development of all products and services.
The company designs its devices specifically to help customers save on operational costs. “Our filters are intended to have the lowest power consumption possible during the cleaning process,” explained Mr Vaverka. “To avoid human error during operation, we continually improve our filters to be as foolproof as possible.”
Since 2012, the company has been deriving energy from its own PV park, showing itself to be ahead of the curve as far as renewable options are concerned. These solar panels currently account for over 60% of the energy used by the production process and in the IN-EKO office.
These factors, combined with the development of innovative filtration segments and a company-wide initiative to use less plastic, have helped IN-EKO to lower its carbon footprint and contributed to its favourable ESG ratings.
“We were ranked sixth among the top ten small- and medium-sized companies in the Czech Republic for ESG last year,” said Mr Vaverka. “Everybody now has ISO certificates, but ESG is taking its place, so we are a great partner to work with. We are also collaborating with a global network, the Inogen Alliance, to help other companies to improve their ESG credentials when it comes to water treatment.”
The future of filtration
Ultimately, IN-EKO is well on its way to becoming a world leader in supplying tertiary wastewater treatment equipment . It will be carried there by strong partnerships and teamwork.
As a result, the company promotes trust, expertise, reliability and cooperation amongst its in-house team and extends the same ideals to external relationships. IN-EKO also offers extensive technical support and training in order to maintain strong, collaborative relationships with both customers and suppliers.
Alongside its partner for membrane filtration, New Water Group, IN-EKO achieves even finer filtration along with
a system for the removal of microplastics and pharmaceutical residues. The company also intends to strengthen its position in the cruise ship segment.
Mr Vaverka even shared a creative idea for an onboard brewery: “One day I was talking with my colleague from craft
brewery EBIA CZ and I had the idea: ‘Are there any craft breweries onboard a cruise ship?’ I know I would definitely like to try local beer brewed onboard a cruise ship.
“I think this could also be a good marketing attraction. A lot of water is needed for brewing, and we are ready with the craft brewery technology. Due to our experience with screens and filters, we would be able to implement a system that meets all the marine standards.”
IN-EKO is clearly a dynamic company with a lot of achievements and even more potential. For Mr Vaverka, the chance to make a difference is the most exciting part. “I’m ecologically focused,” he concluded. “By treating wastewater, we are doing something for nature. Many people take clean water for granted, assuming it’s endless. However, this is not the case .
“On a global scale, pure water is a precious resource and a valuable commodity. That’s why we are continually developing solutions for water and wastewater treatment to ensure the highest possible water quality for every application and to return water to nature safely. For me, this is very important.”
Head of Sales Aleš Vaverka
Moteurs Baudouin is known for designing and manufacturing the highest quality diesel engines for marine and power generation applications. Having been in operation for over a century, the company is no stranger to evolution and has more recently diversified its product range to encompass hybrid and gas solutions. Hannah Barnett reports.
At the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, the Brazilian delegation of athletes .travelled aboard the Bel Ami vessel during the opening ceremony. The vessel was owned by the company Bleu Sein and powered by a Moteurs Baudouin 8M26.2 marine propulsion engine.
Baudouin announced this impressive feat on LinkedIn after the close of the Games, as testament to its success in the market and prominence on the world stage.
MOTEURS BAUDOUIN I PROFILE
Excellence in action
Baudouin was founded in 1918 and now has over 200 employees at its 17,000 square metre global headquarters in Cassis, France.
The company also maintains a site in Pune, India, plus a branch in China, as part of its mother company Wechai Power –one of the world’s largest manufacturers of diesel engines.
Baudouin was acquired by Wechai back in 2009, a strategic move which hugely benefitted both parties. As Baudoin CEO Fabrizio Mozzi explained in a previous article, the company went from selling a few hundred engines a year to 25,000 in 2022, 12 years after the acquisition by Wechai.
Indeed, the credentials of Wechai for innovation are hard to dispute. In April 2024, at the World Congress on Internal Combustion Engines in China, the company unveiled a groundbreaking achievement: the world’s first diesel engine with an intrinsic thermal efficiency of 53.09%.
This remarkable feat garnered official recognition from both TÜV SÜD and the China Automotive Technology & Research Center, plus a new world record in the economic index of diesel engine thermal efficiency.
Baudouin itself has the largest diesel product range in marine and power generation applications in the industry. The range varies from 15kW to 4,000kW.
Setting the standard
Beyond the Olympics, Baudouin has been involved in countless innovative and high-profile projects.
For example, it worked alongside renowned naval shipyard Piriou in the build of the Grain de Sail, a 52-metre cargo sailing vessel designed for wind-powered sailing. Baudouin equipped the vessel with a 6M26.3 marine propulsion engine, renowned for its reliable performance and energy efficiency.
The 6M26.3 engine is designed for high performance, efficient fuel consumption and simplified maintenance. This engine plays a crucial role in port manoeuvre and in critical situations, ensuring operational flexibility and safety.
Additionally, the incorporation of SCR technology into the project takes a significant step toward environmentally friendly maritime solutions, meeting European IMO III and US EPA standards.
The integration of eco-friendly technologies into the new Grain de Sail II serves as an
BAUDOUIN ITSELF HAS THE LARGEST DIESEL PRODUCT RANGE IN MARINE AND POWER GENERATION APPLICATIONS IN THE INDUSTRY. THE RANGE VARIES FROM...
example for the industry, illustrating how a combination of wind and engine power can balance environmental responsibility with competitive performance.
Another partnership that has paid off has seen Baudoin work
on illustrious projects with Hornblower Marine. The partnership has resulted in Baudouin powering and re-powering all Hornblower’s vessels including the NYC Ferry service, which provides an easy way to travel between waterfront communities throughout New York City. Launched in May 2017, the six routes span over 60 nautical miles of waterways, connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx – and the entire ferry network is powered by Baudouin marine propulsion engines.
Event-tastic!
Baudouin has a presence at many prestigious events around the world showcasing its innovative products. From the International Tug and Salvage Convention in Dubai to Data Centre World in London, the company has much to offer to a variety of sectors and regions. It also made a significant impact at the biggest date in the marine calendar, SMM in Hamburg at the start of September 2024.
SMM is recognised as the world’s largest gathering of the maritime industry and provides an exceptional platform to explore the latest innovations and technologies.
Baudoin showcased its new M33.3 range of marine engines propulsion, including 6- and 16-cylinders models. M33.3 engines ensure a consistent and reliable performance while they are designed for easy and efficient routine maintenance.
Baudouin engines, already renowned for their quality and efficiency, now power some of the world’s most sophisticated and elegant yachts, including major brands like Ferretti. This expansion represents a major evolution for the
company and demonstrates its technical expertise and unwavering commitment to high standards.
The company put this expertise and reputation in propulsion to use at the Cannes Yachting Festival. Attendance at this prestigious event demonstrated the success of the company’s move into the prestigious luxury yachting market.
The company presented its latest marine propulsion solutions for yachts, including the 6F21 range, as well as a groundbreaking genset that sets a new standard for silence on the marine market.
The 6F21 marine propulsion engines are designed to deliver exceptional power, compact design, fuel efficiency and reliability. They are well suited to yachting thanks to being compact and powerful, meaning the engines fit easily into the confined spaces of yachts while offering high power density. They are designed for easy maintenance, simplifying servicing and minimising downtime. With so much going on, it is clear that Baudouin is on a trajectory of continued assured success, for both the company and all those it works with. n
For 20 years, Heysea Yachts has wowed the maritime industry with its exciting and exceptional vessel designs. Now, with a new ten-year plan in place, the company is gearing up to meet the demands of the future with more unique, sustainable developments. VP of International Sales Ice Leng revealed what the company has achieved so far (and what it has planned), during an in-depth interview with Inside Marine. Report by Imogen Ward.
Over the years, Heysea Yachts has developed a prominent name for itself as an innovative and flexible superyacht specialist. Now, having accomplished 20 amazing years in the industry, the company is looking to diversify its capabilities.
“We are already a top tier manufacturer when it comes to luxury and super-sized yachts,” explained VP of International Sales Ice Leng. “But now, we have a desire to build a similar reputation within the catamaran market.”
Founded in 2004, in Hong Kong, Heysea Yachts was created by three experienced
naval architects who had a passion for boat building. Initially, the company was focused on the construction of houseboats. This soon shifted, however, to yachts with the development of the Heysea Line in 2008
Heysea entered the yachting market with 55ft, 60ft and 75ft vessels. The company quickly adapted to build bigge r and bolder models in response to an increasing demand for superyachts.
In 2019, the company built its first catamaran – an achievement that would become the catalyst for an entirely new Heysea adventure.
The ten-year plan
With 2024 a year for celebration, Heysea saw it as an opportunity to look f orward. Following a strategic meeting focused on the company’s next steps, it developed a clearcut ten-year plan filled with innovation, growth and success.
“We put a lot of thought into what we were going to do over the next ten years,” said Mr Leng. “The plan highlights our desire to focus on the international market, the catamaran and power catamaran market, and the transition to renewable fuels.”
The plan will also see Heysea incorporate new energy components in all its future builds. Keen to get started, Heysea has already laid the foundations, including forming a new strategic alliance that is expected to significantly advance its use of electric propulsion.
The new alliance with ePropulsion, the leading innovator of electric onboard motors, was signed last year following three years of successful collaboration
“ePropulsion was one of the first companies to focus on electric propulsion, and it did so effectively,” commented Mr Leng. “Now, under this new official
alliance, we are working together to bring ePropulsion’s technology to the market at a quicker pace. And we hope, through this partnership, we can really advance our presence in the electric catamaran sector.”
According to Mr Leng, although the partnership is still maturing, it has been incredibly successful so far. And as the alliance advances, Heysea hopes to advance from hybrid propulsion to fully electric.
“Heysea is a relatively young company and is seen as quite a late comer to the industry,” added Mr Leng. “However, we truly cherish the opportunities for innovation we have gained along the way. So far, the collaboration with ePropulsion has been an excellent one.”
Taking the first steps
In line with its determination to establish a strong presence within the catamaran market, Heysea has already developed several exciting examples.
Already out and sailing is the company’s Seaview line. Currently featuring two catamarans (the 48 and 56), and designed with sustainability in mind, this line is the epitome of eco-friendly escapades.
When purchasing their catamarans, customers can currently choose from two
dif ferent power systems. The first option involves solar panels or an electric generator and a battery storage system. This runs all the vessel’s electrical appliances and lighting overnight.
The second system is a hybrid, and it relies on diesel to drive an electric generator, which then propels the vessel.
Having already delivered several 48 and 56 catamarans, Heysea’s Seaview line is quickly gaining popularity.
“The Seaview range is designed to be a blue water sailing catamaran capable of global travel, and is becoming a quick favourite, primarily within the Asian market,” said Mr Leng. “However, we are getting an increasing number of enquiries from overseas, especially from the Middle East and USA. With so much interest, we are seriously considering scaling this range up in the future.”
More recently, Heysea brought a new catamaran to the market. The Vista75 is a power catamaran that features solar panels, energy storage and a stronger structure to enable global travel.
“The owner of the first Vista 75 actually cruised it all the way from Hong Kong back to Australia,” explained Mr Leng. “We utilised our experience and superior craftsmanship within the superyacht industry and put it to work on a power cat. The ship was designed to be environmentally friendly, which came with the added bonus of quiet propulsion. This was important to the client as he wanted to be at peace while traveling the world.”
Key collaborations
Having achieved so much in the past two decades, Heysea would not have been able to do it without its hardworking supply chain.
“We have very longstanding relationships with our main suppliers,” said Mr Leng. “We rely on the same chain as European yacht manufacturers, and they are quite pleased to find a really good partner in China. All these companies are helping us to achieve our goals and provide the very best quality yachts and catamarans to our customers.”
As it looks to the future, Heysea will continue to work on its ten-year plan. The company will be divided into two |divisions. By doing so, the company will ensure each area of expertise gets the right amount of attention.
“The first division is the superyacht section, and we intend to maintain what we are already doing in this sector as it is fundamental to our business,” said Mr Leng, in conclusion. “The second sector is, of course, the catamarans, and that includes power and sailing cats. We really want to become a top tier catamaran manufacturer within the next ten years.
“As the second generation of my family to head this business, I am super excited to help progress the company into a future filled greener technology.” n
Hostmost is a leading provider of marine electronics, navigation and communications systems and services. Since its inception, the company has expanded globally, while upholding core values of safety, integrity, passion and quality. Hannah Barnett discussed the ins and outs of the industry with Business Development Manager Taylor Lawson.
The shipping industry may always be changing, but one thing Hostmost can guarantee is truly dedicated customer service. From the largest ship-owners and fleet managers to the smallest vessel operators, the company commits equal care and attention to each job.
Indeed, Hostmost is known for its expertise in the most complex tasks, including newbuild shipyard projects, underway retrofits and emergency services. The staff have a depth and range of knowledge that is unmatched – and integrity with it.
“As a partner which doesn’t manufacture products, it’s important for us to go out there with facts and make sure that our clients are well informed,” said Taylor Lawson, Business Development Manager. “I always remind our salespeople; this isn’t like other sales jobs. No one in our industry is going to buy a new radar because they won the lottery last
week. It’s about being technically sound and able to answer the questions that matter to our customers. It is not about upselling and promoting a product without due cause.
“If anybody in the industry has any questions about a new regulation, our opinion on a new piece of technology or a shipping -related concern, we always do our best to answer to the best of our ability. This includes matters outside of marine electronics. We’re always happy to provide customer service when we have the opportunity.”
Engineers are available 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring that client’s needs are met around the clock.
Staying relevant
Hostmost was founded in 1989 in Hong Kong by three ex-radio officers. Testament to the ever-changing nature of shipping, the role of Radio Officer no longer exists in the industry.
“All of our founders are former seafarers, which I think is fairly unique, and certainly sets us apart from our competition,” Mr Lawson said. “We understand the urgency required and what ship owners and man agers are looking for.”
In 1996, the company opened its first overseas office in Vancouver. There are now 15 locations worldwide, including major branches in Hong Kong, China, Singapore, the Philippines, Canada and Vietnam. The newest site in Houston, Texas, launched earlier in 2024.
The company is made up of around 100 skilled engineers and a further 100 more on the sales and admin side. It is certified by most of the major classifications such as Lloyd’s Register, DNV, BV and American Bureau of Shipping, among others.
In a rapidly shifting industry, Hostmost also stays ahead by offering more than marine electronics. The most recent adaptation has seen a greater focus on decarbonisation, digitisation and emissions data tracking.
A host of services
Service and repair are the bread-andbutter of the business and take up the most manhours, another unique selling point of the company. “A lot of companies in our sector would recommend just replacing something when it’s broken,” said Mr Lawson. “We pride ourselves on our ability to troubleshoot both remotely and in person, find the fault and fix it. It means a customer doesn’t have to buy a new set and it’s more sustainable, too.”
Alongside repair, the work on newbuilds in shipyards, often involves the installation of a full navigation and communications package for a vessel’s bridge. “This includes commissioning and testing throughout various sea trials,” Mr Lawson explained, “all the way to delivery, plus staying with that ship through the warranty period, then retaining the owner as a customer to help them maintain, repair and replace systems as required.”
The company retains a full retrofitting team, facilitating the upgrade of vessels
to stay compliant with modern regulations. Hostmost also carries a full inventory of spare parts. “It’s a one-stop-shop for all marine electronic needs,” Mr Lawson said. “If a customer needs something like a new battery or screen onboard, they can come to us for equipment spares at any time, not just complete systems.”
The latest diversification from standard marine electronics has also included a range of decarbonisation products like fuel additives and anti-fouling systems. Hostmost has begun working with Innospec, the American specialty chemical company, to decrease oil consumption and make vessels more efficient.
“Decarbonisation has become ever more important in these last few years, and it shows no sign of slowing down,” said Mr Lawson. “Feasible solutions that are proven to reduce fuel oil consumption are of high interest across the board. There are a lot of promises out there, but products backed by trials and independently verified case studies show our customers we are serious about providing real solutions that work.
“We are showing the ship owners and managers that there’s these short term,
low CapEx, reliable solutions that can be used on a vessel’s journey towards decarbonisation, as opposed to the many very expensive solutions. We also offer systems such as Sonic Anti Fouling systems from Sonihull, which prevent marine growth on key areas such as propellers – further enhancing the vessels efficiency.”
Electric alliances
Hostmost works closely with a range of suppliers. As well as the partnership with Innospec, longer standing collaborations include the Japan Radio Company (JRC) and YDK Technologies.
“Those two relationships are paramount,” Mr Lawson said. “JRC delivers a full suite of electronics. The company can cover every bit of electronics in the bridge of a ship and its reputation in the industry is exemplary.
Anyone that has used the equipment always speaks very highly of JRC and the reliability of the product.
“We exist to support the manufacturers and make sure that the ship owners understand why JRC or YDK products are superior to the competition. We then ensure that the service network is available no matter where the ship is in the world.”
Hostmost is no stranger to complex, technical projects. In one instance, engineers had to work out how to merge radar signals on a new ship with large aluminium sails. The sails were designed to reduce fuel use but caused a radar blind spot in the process.
“We had to merge those signals together to give one comprehensive display and see past the blind spot,” Mr Lawson said. “It was a pretty cool project.”
Such challenges are overcome thanks to Hostmost’s team of highly skilled engi -
neers and technical staff. The company regularly co-hosts training sessions alongside manufacturers, which are also open to engineers from other companies.
In November, the company will run a YDK training seminar in Washington State, across two weeks, for around 80 engineers from many different companies.
“The shipping industry is somewhat difficult to get into and basically impos -
sible to get out of,” concluded Mr Lawson. “Once you’re in, you’re in.
“But there are many fascinating things shipping is involved in like global trade patterns and emission reductions targets; it is interesting on so many different levels. It engages me every day. This job is not just the midnight phone calls about broken echo sounders, though that also keeps it interesting!” n
seven seas, five oceans, one voice
ENERGY & SERVICES
A selection of company profiles from the energy and services sectors.
THE SUCCESSFUL GROW TH OF AN OFFSHORE SERVICE PROVIDER
Mainprize Offshore has operated in the North Sea for over 40 years, gaining extensive experience in the offshore oil, gas and renewable industry. Now, the company is undergoing an era of rapid growth and expansion, as General Manager Steve Evans explained to Hannah Barnett.
SAone of the market-leading Crew Transfer Vessel owners, operators and designers, offering the only truly costeffective multi-role CTVs in the industry, it would be easy for Mainprize Offshore to rest on its laurels. However, the company is doing the exact opposite.
“We plan to capitalise on the market conditions and our product to drive the company towards its potential,” said Steve Evans, General Manager. “We currently have six vessels on order, an investment of around £30 million’s worth, and more will follow.
“I’ve been in the CTV industry since 2009 and seen many companies fail. One main reason they fail is growing too quickly without the right infrastructure to maintain and sustain that growth. We must invest in our staff and have a great foundation to be successful. We are getting the right staff in place, establishing the foundation for these boats to arrive.”
The other fundamental cornerstone of this growth plan was secured in February 2024, when, following an investment round, Alcuin Capital Partners joined Mainprize Offshore as investment partners. “Bob
SIEMENS FINANCIAL SERVICES
Siemens Financial Services (SFS) is proud to have supported Mainprize Offshore with a €25m Marine Mortgage Loan to assist the fleet expansion. This partnership, rooted in a mutual dedication to offshore renewables, has delivered outstanding results for Mainprize Offshore and marks a milestone as our largest Marine Finance deal to date.
At SFS, we take the time to understand our customers long-term objectives, which is evidenced in our relationship with Mainprize Offshore, paving the way for lasting partnerships that transcend a single transaction. We’re committed to supporting vessel owners and operators to grow their business with our innovative financial solutions.
MAINPRIZE OFFSHORE I PROFILE
and Sharon (Mainprize, Directors and Co-founders) have brought Alcuin on board to support our growth and help drive the company's success. We anticipate additional investment rounds in the future as opportunities and partnerships arise.”
Building the best Mainprize Offshore has a turnover of around £15 million, increasing from the £10 million just over two years ago. Aided by the company’s reputation for offering designs at the forefront of innovation, plus efficient, reliable and cost-effective solutions.
The company established this reputation with its MO range of market-leading large cargo and transfer vessels. The MO10
and MO11, built by Strategic Marine in Singapore, were the most recently delivered iterations. These vessels went straight into five-year long-term charters with Vestas. Thanks to the Alcuin investment, there are six more new vessels on order, all to be built by Strategic Marine, taking the company to MO17.
From the MO12 onward, all vessels will follow the same design. “These will be some of the highest performing CTVs on the market in terms of transfer performance,” said Mr Evans.
A key feature that sets the new Mainprize Offshore fleet apart is the highperformance Supa-SWATH hull design, first introduced on MO5. “We've chosen to
build MO12 to MO17 with the Supa-SWATH design, matching the success of MO10 and MO11,” Mr Evans explained.
Additionally, the vessels are powered by the C32B Caterpillar engine, delivering 400 more horsepower than the C32 engines used in the older vessels, improving, speed, noise, vibration, power and fuel efficiency.
Mainprize Offshore will receive the vessels in pairs, starting in Autumn 2025, with the final delivery expected by Q3 2026, bringing the fleet to a total of 17 vessels.
Seamless sustainability
The company is improving its sustainability in meaningfull ways that make the most sense. This includes researching what paths not to take.
“After looking at different engine options and reviewing emissions linked with potential increases to vessel weight when using hybrid engines, we’ve chosen not to go hybrid,” Mr Evans explained.
“Our focused analysis indicates that major fuel consumption in a CTV's daily operations occurs during transit. However,
during these periods, hybrid systems cannot be effectively utilised. Hybrid systems are rendered impractical during the two primary tasks responsible for the highest emissions and fuel consumption.
“Furthermore, the added weight of the hybrid system during transit significantly increases fuel burn and CO2 emissions, ultimately questioning the meaningfulness and credibility of these systems for CTV operations.”
Recognising the growing momentum towards methanol as a viable alternative fuel in the offshore wind industry, Mainprize Offshore has strategically decided to install CAT C32B engines in all its new vessels. These methanol-ready engines align with the industry's trajectory towards more sustainable fuel options. As offshore wind energy increasingly adopts methanol as a preferred fuel, a trend reflected in the new Service Operation Vessels, the company foresees the potential redundancy of existing hybrid systems.
The company is deploying its highly skilled in-house design team to explore
MAINPRIZE
hull efficiency by reducing weight. Stern gear optimisation plays a pivotal role in fuel efficiency. Like on the MO8, Mainprize Offshore has the possibility to implement a 6-blade Class S propellers in conjunction with CJR Propulsion's flow-aligned rudders significantly maximises fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Through this integration, the company achieves a calculated 7% increase in fuel efficiency, underlining the significance of innovative propeller designs.
“Our customers drive the fuel decision for their charters, so we must ensure that we can efficiently accommodate their preferences,” Mr Evans contributed. “We don’t believe that it’s ok to simply pass fuel burn costs on to our customers without trying to minimise them – design refinements play a massive part in that.”
To increase sustainability, maintain reliability, uphold the commonality of spares and continue to push for innovation, Mainprize Offshore has worked closely with many suppliers for some time.
“We have been using all the same trusted suppliers for years,” Mr Evans said, “like Hercules Hydraulics and Hypro Marine,
which are standard on all our vessels, FURUNO and BEE Electrics and Electronics. We use the same suppliers because we get longevity and good relationships .”
The readiness is all
Mainprize Offshore continues to succeed in a competitive, fairly young, market, thanks to the quality of its designs, skill of its workforce and tireless attention to detail.
“We don’t use stock vessels, we design our own,” said Mr Evans. “That gives us a
competive advantage due to the years of iterations and improvements. Not many of our competitors can do this, because they buy boats ‘off the shelf’, reducing their ability to implement design changes. We pride ourselves on the fact that we build and design our vessels. Our R&D spend has been upwards of around £3 million over the past five years.”
As well as supplier and customer relationships, Mainprize Offshore is focused on increasing the size of its workforce to complement the company’s growth plans.
As Mr Evans explained, being ready to support this expansion is vital.
“We can’t just take delivery of six vessels and off we go,” Mr Evans explained. “We need to be prepared in the back office, because when the vessels arrive, they are going to be on charter straightaway. So, we can’t be bringing the vessels in and then bolster the team. Instead, we’re bringing people in now to be prepared for a year’s time when the boats arrive.
“I joined Mainprize over three years ago, and we only had five vessels back then. So, the growth in three to four years has been phenomenal. As a General Manager, I have my hand in every department of the business and it’s exciting to grow, in vessels and staff numbers alike. To be part of an industry that’s rapidly expanding and is highly motivating; I can’t imagine working in any other company or sector!” n
Family-owned company Borkum Bunker provides a comprehensive service to all visiting vessels. From fuelling to maintenance services, the bunker station of Borkum is fully prepared to meet all ship and crew needs. Harbour Organisation Manager Ilona Weber and Bunker Service Manager Petra Schnell discussed the company’s commitment to quality service, in conversation with Antonia Cole.
Borkum Bunker’s range of partnerships enable it to meet a broad variety of customer needs, Bunker Service Manager Petra Schnell said: “We are always growing our network and have developed many new partnerships. From food companies for crew members to engineering companies for vessel repairs, our relationships mean we can quickly offer specialised services to meet the individual needs of clients.”
Established in 1996, Borkum Bunker is situated on the southern pier of the Borkum shelter harbour. This optimal location
provides convenient access to various vessel and crew services, meaning clients’ issues can be resolved quickly and effi ciently. Additionally, the company facilities offer easy access to many different vessel types, including offshore, sports or personal boats.
With its own vehicle fleet of three tanker trucks and two trailers, Borkum Bunker is able to efficiently transport goods from wholesale dealers to the bunker station. This reduces wait times and guarantees that expected timelines are met. The company
also has seven tank stores, totalling a capacity of 290,000 litres. With this, Borkum Bunker is able to meet customer diesel fuel requirements without difficulty and ensures continuous monitoring and quality are guaranteed.
In addition, the fuel passes through several filters before reaching the ship, something which is very important to owner Frank Weber. The observation of the development of new fuels and the preparation for them is similarly important.
“We ensure the quality and delivery of all our fuels and lubricants,” added Ms Schnell. “Every vessel that comes to us leaves fully prepared to take on its next endeavour.
At Borkum Bunker, we really try to take our service to the next level and provide the necessary care to both vessels and crew.
We are always happy to see new faces and welcome back old ones, and we will always go that extra mile for them.”
Fuelling success
The company is committed to delivering quality bunkering services to every client. Whether planned far in advance or on short notice, Borkum Bunker is able to prepare facilities to supply fuel to many different types of vessels quickly and efficiently.
All of Borkum Bunker’s fuels are also of the highest standard, ensuring the safety of boats and crew. With quality guaranteed at every stage of operations, the company is able to deliver services that equip customers for future successful journeys. Borkum Bunker also offers both common motor and hydraulic oils to clients to give a comprehensive set of services that meet individual needs.
“As a company, it is important for us to really understand our customers’ requirements when they come to visit us,” explained Harbour Organisation Manager Ilona Weber. “This means providing short lead times and being really communicative with our clients. We aim to be flexible, responsive and innovative in offering services and solutions to everyone that visits us. Through this, we are able to build up strong relationships that drive us forward.”
Borkum Bunker has a diesel station so that customers can not only receive ship fuels, but also diesel for cars, trucks, construction vehicles and more. This convenient service makes the client’s operation more efficient, saving time and transportation costs. Additionally, Borkum
EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE IS AT THE HEART OF BORKUM BUNKER’S OPERATION AND THE COMPANY IS COMMITTED TO LISTENING TO, AND DELIVERING, THE DEMANDS OF CLIENTS “ “
Bunker can supply the diesel from a tanker truck for added accessibility and ease.
“As well as being utilised for industrial use, our fuelling station can also be used for recreational vessels, such as sports boats,” continued Ms Weber. “We want to make everyone’s trips easier, whether they are at work or on holiday. Borkum is an ideal location for crew transfer vessels , as well as a popular travel destination, and we strive to make sure everyone is ready for their journeys.”
The company provides clients with the opportunity to load or unload heavy cargo at its station too. With a 16-tonne crane, Borkum Bunker is able to manage containers, bulk cargo and more. This added service demonstrates the company’s ability to satisfy a wide range of demands, as well as further optimising customer operations.
Maintaining quality
Borkum Bunker centres customer satisfaction in operations. As well as high-quality bunkering, the company offers many additional services to meet the needs of each client visiting the pier. From repairing vessels to caring for crew, Borkum Bunker
collaborates with local partners to make sure requirements are met quickly and effectively.
This includes the maintenance and repair of ships in the harbour. In collaboration with Marine & Offshore Solutions, a technical service provider for the shipping industry, Borkum Bunker is able to supply a broad range of vessel repairs. Whether an emergency repair or routine maintenance, the company offers responsive and safe on-site assistance.
“From the procurement of spare parts to organising professional mechanics and divers for underwater works, we make sure that any maintenance can be carried out so that customers can keep operating,” commented Ms Weber. “Usually, we can have a specialist ready to help our clients the morning following the request. For urgent work, this is especially important as it means we can solve issues very quickly.”
The company is able to offer ship docking stations for offshore vessels on short notice too. The location is well suited to seagoing, offshore supply and crew transfer ships, with access to extensive facilities and modern infrastructure. There are tide-independent mooring and floating pontoons, large storage halls, a long eastern key, and a central helicopter and aircraft flying field. All of these factors combine to optimise operations for the client, which is accompanied by Borkum Bunker’s professional and friendly service.
“It is very special to work in a company that really makes a difference to clients,” added Ms Weber. “With our modern equipment and site, we are able to really go the extra mile to
meet our customers’ needs. We form strong relationships with our clients, whether it be on the pier or over a cup of coffee. Our open and responsive communication enables us to provide high-quality services and maintain those partnerships.”
Supporting crew
The company supports the crews of ships, in addition to the vessel itself. Borkum Bunker is able to guide clients through crew change processes, recommending and organising accommodations suited to specific needs if an overnight stay is necessary.
“Not only can our customers stock up on fuel with us, but they can also prepare themselves with either individual or crew supplies,” said Ms Schnell. “Anyone moored in the harbour has access to local shopping centres, which we will take them to, or we will collect and deliver the items for them. If a client is short for time, then they are also able to place an order via email in advance, which we will then prepare for their arrival. Additionally, we accept our clients’ parcels so they can order whatever they need.”
Exceptional customer service is at the heart of Borkum Bunker’s operation and the company is committed to listening to, and delivering, the demands of clients. With a welcoming and experienced team, customers can visit Borkum Bunker to fulfil their vessel and crew needs.
A focus on personal contact is vital to the company. Borkum Bunker strives to be open, honest and genuine. “This is the best recipe – otherwise our customers and our network will feel it,” Ms Weber concluded. n
Cassar Marine Group has built a strong reputation for providing a diverse range of marine-based services. Over the years, the group has expanded the capabilities in its portfolio, in order to answer the demands of its customers.
Having recently added another string to its bow, Cassar’s CEO Andrea Cassar revealed the details, during an in-depth interview with Inside Marine. Report by Imogen Ward.
From dredging to ship repair, and everything in between, Cassar Marine Group has worked hard to build up a portfolio of companies that can do it all. Known as a one-stop-shop for marine services.
“Although the group was established in 1962, It wasn’t until 1967 that my father Tony and his brother Charles decided to open it up in a more professional way
by establishing Cassar Enterprises,” explained CEO Andrea Cassar. “At the time, it was still a small repair and maintenance boatyard, but there was a very big passion for the marine industry here in Malta, and that’s where it kicked off.”
Cassar went on to acquire a 1,000-tonne floating dock in the 1990s. This investment opened new doors for the group, which was now able to complete much larger
ship repairs. Unfortunately, tragedy struck not long after and the dock sunk in the Bay of Biscay.
Despite this challenge, Cassar saw it as an opportunity to go bigger and bolder, purchasing a 5,000-tonne floating dock in 1996. This bolstered the progress of Cassar’s ship repair division even further.
“Since then, we haven’t looked back,” said Ms Cassar. “We’ve been doing a lot of ship repair work, and we still have that same floating dock today.”
Expanding once more
The company also made several acquisitions that enabled it to diversify its capabilities. Today, the group has
a fleet of vessels dedicated to dredging works, underwater works, marine construction and offshore support.
“Since the ‘70s, we haven’t stopped growing because we haven’t stopped investing,” revealed Ms Cassar. “Every few years, we make a new investment, entering different areas within the marine industry, starting with ship repair, then dredging, we even have our own hopper and crane barges now as well.”
Keen to carry on the trend, Cassar completed another major investment last year. Having already dipped its toe into oil spill response in the past, the group acquired Saltwave Limited to advance its presence in this area.
“Last year was really the turning point for Cassar’s experience within oil spill prevention,” explained Ms Cassar. “We felt the island needed a professional company that specialised in just oil response, and taking over Saltwave really allowed us to fill that gap.
“We invested heavily in a new factory, and we have standby agreements with ships and port facilities to provide a reliable and efficient 24/7 service.
“The establishment of our oil spill division was several years in the making, because we wanted to get it right. We believe that everyone should maintain a commitment to safeguarding the environment, and that’s why we offer oil prevention, maintenance and cleaning services. We are essentially the one-stop shop when it comes to oil spills.”
Investing for the community
Cassar also added a new seaseven jack-up barge to its fleet in 2022. This was a huge achievement, not only for Cassar but for the whole of Malta, as it is the first of its kind in the country.
“This was a real gamechanger for Malta,” said Ms Cassar. “Previously, a lot of marine construction work would get delayed due to poor weather conditions, but the jackup barge ensured construction companies could remain on time with their projects.”
The barge is currently on charter in Libya for a large Turkish construction company, which is one contract that Ms Cassar hopes will continue far into the future: “This construction company has a lot of different projects ongoing, and we would really like to extend this to a long-term charter with this company.
“While out on charter we carry out the entire operation, provide the crews and monitor all the work being carried out.”
Another exciting investment is currently underway at Cassar Ship Repair. The group’s ship repair division is constructing new workshops at its shipyard in Marsa. Alongside the new workshops, the company has also invested in all new equipment and a brand-new overhead crane lift – perfect for transporting machinery onto the workshop floor.
True team spirit
Of course, none of these investments would have been possible without the support of Cassar’s suppliers and clients . As a family-run business, the company pays close attention to their needs and goes above and beyond to provide a world-class service.
“Having a family-centric ethos really makes all the difference,” explained Ms Cassar. “We really immerse ourselves into the projects and commit to the
visions of our clients with a keen attention to detail. And obviously, we have grown up in this business, so we understand it inside and out.”
More recently, Cassar attended Posidonia to meet up with these companies in person.
“Posidonia was great, especially for Cassar Ship Repair,” commented Ms Cassar. “We met some great people and made some really good contacts for spare parts supplies. The chartering division also had a very successful time at the show, gaining lots of new contacts with brokers and agents.
“We also met with a lot of our current clients. Companies from all over the world attend Posidonia, so it is a great meeting point for our suppliers, partners and clients. We work regularly with these individuals , but we never get to meet them face-to-
face, so we are truly thankful for this opportunity. There was also a heatwave over the weekend, so it was incredibly hot, but totally worth it.”
As Cassar carries on with its journey of investment, it is determined to continue improving its customer service to maintain a place amongst the best in the industry.
“We are determined to give the best service to the shipping industry by utilising the latest machinery, keeping our personnel happy and embracing flexibility,” added Ms Cassar, in conclusion.
“The Cassar workforce is highly specialised and multi-skilled, which really enables us to stand out amongst the crowd. Being able to work with these people and spearhead such amazing projects is truly a privilege and one I am so grateful for.”
n
Conntrak Catering Services provides world-class catering, housekeeping and su clients offshore. Having quickly established itself as a market leader across the M Southeast Asia, Conntrak Catering is gearing up to grow once more. Commercia Russell divulged more, during an in-depth interview. Report by Imogen Ward.
upport to its Middle East and al Director Nathan
When it comes to catering within the offshore, marine and renewables sectors, Conntrak Catering Services maintains a strong market lead. Each year, the offshore service specialist produces around 8.5 million meals with the help of its 2,000 hardworking employees.
“Conntrak Catering was established in 2017 by myself and my business partner and Managing Director Craig Ogden,” explained Commercial Director Nathan Russell. “The business was established in the UAE, started from the ground up, without any sales pipeline or existing clients.”
Before long, the two partners were ready to develop the business further, and, in 2019, they sealed the deal with the acquisition of a multinational caterer in Thailand.
“It was our first ever acquisition, and Thailand has been extremely successful,” said Mr Russell. “The acquisition also helped us expand into the greater Southeast Asian region, and now in Thailand we are the market leader for our sector.”
Building a solid foundation
Just last year, the company expanded once more with the acquisition of another major multinational competitor in the GCC. This was a major benchmark for Conntrak Catering, as it allowed for a swift expansion across the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and also opened the doors to other segments of the market.
“The acquisition involved four entities that spanned three countries,” revealed Mr Russell. “This investment also provided us with a much larger access to the drilling market within the GCC. By adding this acquisition to our roster, we have benefited from stronger consolidation. It has enabled us to combine resources across regions and support clients with additional managerial support.”
Although the transition was challenging, Conntrak Catering’s team worked exceptionally hard to ensure the changeover was completed in just 90 days.
As Conntrak Catering takes the time to learn more about the acquisition and how it operates, the new owner will continue
to update and improve the business, with several more changes planned over the next 12 months.
Today, the company operates out of offices situated within the Middle East, Southeast Asia, the UK, GoM and Africa.
“Our main service is catering for offshore vessels, rigs, and platforms,” said Mr Russell. “We also provide housekeeping, laundry and pest control services to our clients.
“Our offshore management, chefs, bakers, assistant cooks and stewards support daily tasks, which include
providing three meals a day, plus midnight snacks and meals as required, housekeeping, and laundry services on their designated vessel. The entire opera tion is then overseen by our regional offices.”
Every quarter, Conntrak Catering provides its clients with business and quality reviews where it discusses operational successes, challenges, customer satisfaction surveys, Captain surveys, HSEQ statistics, financial performance and any training needs. These reviews have been implemented since Conntrak Catering was founded.
Nurturing a greener tomorrow
Conntrak Catering firmly believes in protecting the environment, from the work of its HSEQ and Operational teams (which ensures the use of locally sourced produce and environmentally friendly chemicals) to partnerships with suppliers that align with its commitments. By carrying out
biannual audits across its entire supply chain, Conntrak Catering can ensure its suppliers remain committed to the cause.
“These audits are an important step in the process, and our suppliers are very accepting of them,” explained Mr Russell. “It can be difficult for startups to gain the support of suppliers, so we are very grateful for their continued loyalty and understanding. There are several that have been with us since day one and without their support, we would not have the level of success we have right now.”
Conntrak Catering has also implemented a rigorous CSR programme.
“Most recently, we have started to expand our CSR programme across multiple countries,” commented Mr Russell. “We are currently implementing our CSR programme in Thailand, where we’re supporting and sponsoring culinary education at a training centre to provide local members of the community with greater opportunities for employment.
“Some of the places we work are extremely challenging. Hiring locally benefits the communities we work in and also has the added benefit of reduced transportation emissions.”
Glimpsing a brighter future
Each year, Conntrak Catering also looks forward to meeting up with suppliers, customers and potential clients at ADIPEC, and this year will be no different.
“We have a number of clients in attendance, that we support every year,” said Mr Russell. “At ADIPEC, many of our clients have stands in the marine hall, and we make sure to drop by and say hello ,
speak to the team and ensure they are happy with the service we are providing and to keep in touch with their business successes.
“Five to ten years ago, the event was more of an opportunity to speak to new clients, but we are quite well known in the industry now. So, it is more about keeping in touch with our colleagues and our customers, and we also catch up with a lot of other companies from outside of our region that we wouldn’t normally see, which is nice.”
While ADIPEC 2024 is on the horizon, the rest of Conntrak Catering’s future is very bright indeed. Having already experienced a strong growth trajectory since 2017, the company hopes to enhance this even more with organic growth and acquisitions closing out 2024 and to 2025.
“We would also like to expand further across our North Sea business and enter the Gulf of Mexico for the first time in 2025,” added Mr Russell, in conclusion. “The future is an exciting prospect and one that we are grateful to have. I started a sales job in Abu Dhabi back in 2006, which allowed for a natural progression to setting up our own company, and the entire experience has been amazing.
“We really enjoy the challenge of winning competitive tenders whilst supporting the needs of our existing clients. We have been to grow from literally nothing into a medium-sized global enterprise has been incredible in the short time we have been operating.
“That, without a doubt, is my biggest driver, and I am so grateful to have accomplished it with my business partner and our amazing team.” n
Danchor is a family-owned company founded in 2015, which was built upon 33 years of previous experience in the maritime and offshore industries. The company specialises in diving and marine services. Chief of Sales & Projects Uri Golan discussed significant projects and a dedication to high-quality operations, in conversation with Antonia Cole.
ASa company, Danchor is focused on innovation and development, Chief of Sales & Projects Uri Golan said: “To ensure the growth of the industry far into the future, we regularly invest in local startup companies, especially those with an environmental focus. It is so important for us to support innovations within the marine sector, as this will allow us to drive success moving forward.”
From its advanced fleet of ships to its modern equipment, Danchor invests in resources that enable a professional and high-quality service for clients. A leading
provider of commercial diving, vessels, offshore support and marine pollution services in Israel, the company is able to accommodate for a full spectrum of marine activities.
Quality standards and safety measures are vital components of Danchor’s operations. The company is dedicated to providing effective solutions to clients whilst protecting the wellbeing of employees. Currently, Danchor is working to increase safety awareness and improve risk assessment practices within operations. Due to the harsh conditions out at sea, implementing these measures is essential.
“We are constantly striving to improve as a company,” added Mr Golan. “This is a philosophy instilled into the company by our founder, my late Father-in-Law. We have faced many challenges over the years, but his determination that created the company has lived on and has allowed us to succeed. His experience and knowledge continue to guide us, leading to major developments. This includes our new marine construction division, which is a big step forward for the company.”
Diverse services
Danchor offers a broad portfolio of services that can be combined and adapted to fit specific client requirements. This means that the company can fully utilise all assets, from vessels to divers, and pro vide an efficient and personalised final result.
The company has a wealth of resources, including Israel’s largest privately owned tugboat called DANCHOR VI. Providing port, terminal and offshore towage services, Danchor’s vessels are operated by highly skilled and experienced captains to guarantee successful journeys.
“We are able to offer a wide range of marine services due to our variety of workboats,” explained Mr Golan. “From MultiCats and small tugs to diving support vessels and more, our extensive fleet allows us to provide unique services that adhere to customer demands. We also offer crew boat services across the Israeli EEZ, primarily for the oil and gas industry.
All of our vessels have a dynamic positioning system and every crew boat is closely monitored to maintain safety standards.”
Danchor also provides a broad range of underwater services, including surveys, cutting and welding, hull and propellor cleaning and repairs, salvage, and more.
The company’s team of talented divers are supported by advanced equipment to deliver safe and effective operations. Certified by leading IACS class members, Danchor guarantees safety at sea and the prevention of marine pollution.
To help protect the environment, the company also offers spill response services inland, at ports and offshore. With the most capable fleet and equipment across the Israeli shoreline, Mediterranean and Red Sea, Danchor responds effectively to mitigate damage to the marine environment.
“Our capability to meet such a broad range of diversified needs really makes us stand out within the market,” continued Mr Golan. “To further support our services, we also offer offshore rental equipment such as generators, air compressors, nitrogen boosters, pumps and much more.”
Specialised vessels
With a technologically advanced and modern fleet, Danchor is able to adapt operations for many types of marine and offshore projects. The diverse fleet enables the company to provide fast, professional and comprehensive solutions to clients.
“We are constantly expanding and upgrading our fleet to maintain our position as a leader of the marine and offshore industry in Israel,” commented Mr Golan. “At Danchor, we strive to offer the best service possible to our customers. Through continuous improvements and investments into our fleet, we are able to expand our capabilities and work more efficiently.”
Recently, the company welcomed a new vessel to its fleet: DANCHOR X. This ASD 60TBP tugboat is specifically designed to enhance maritime operations and support both harbour and offshore activities. With a length of 24m and breadth of 11.25m, the vessel is fitted with the latest equip -
ment to fulfil even the most demanding maritime requirements.
“As we invest in new vessels, we try to make sure they are as environmentally friendly as possible,” added Mr Golan. “This means focusing on fuel consumption and efficiency for more sustainable journeys. The environment is something we are very passionate about. As members of the International Salvage Union, we strive to protect marine ecosystems through our salvage operations.”
A project Danchor worked on in collaboration with the US Navy saw eight cases of salvage being recovered from the ocean. The company’s advanced equipment and efficient operations supported the success of the project and the preservation of the environment.
Invest in success
One of the core segments of Danchor’s operation is oil spill response. With the l argest spill response equipment inventory in Israel, the company is a major player in
protecting marine life. Expanding upon this, Danchor is currently investigating a beach cleaning system. This will remove harmful plastics and waste materials from beaches, conserving the environment.
“Sustainability is at the heart of Danchor, and we extend this philosophy through our supply chain,” said Mr Golan. “Many of our partners are also family-owned and share similar values to us. We care about supporting people and the environment, which is why we choose to collaborate with likeminded people.
“It is important to us to build up longstanding relationships founded on trust and reliability. For us to provide the best possible services to our clients, we need to ensure that our suppliers are also
offering the best quality to us. We maintain really collaborative partnerships as we work together to improve.”
Moving into the future, the company hopes to maintain these partnerships as it continues to grow. Danchor plans to keep investing in sustainability, employee development and to explore overseas expansion.
“By advancing our resources and workforce, we will guarantee success,” continued Mr Golan, in conclusion. “Our team here at Danchor are extremely talented and will drive the company forward. As we continue to utilise market innovations and investigate new ideas, we strive to offer the best marine and offshore services in the world.” n
Zamil Offshore Services Co is a prominent name within the Saudi Arabian offshore market. Known for having the largest jack-up rig fleet in the KSA, the company has been on a winning streak over the last few years. General Manager of the Marine Operations Division Babak Jabbari revealed all during an in-depth interview. Report by Imogen Ward.
After a rocky few years, support service vessel operator Zamil Offshore Services Co is back on top.
“Six to eight years ago, the market was not favourable, but we have since turned things around for the company,” explained General Manager of the Marine Operations Division Babak Jabbari. “We remodelled our revenue streams and our fleet, while also capturing the jack-up market in Saudi Arabia.”
Today, the company has 19 jack-up barges, making it the largest jack-up operator within the Kingdom. As part of
its remodelling plan, Zamil also extended its presence in other areas, successfully doubling its diving fleet.
Dedicated digitalisation
Another key investment undertaken by the company revolves around digitalisation. After seeing a need to improve its fleet management, Zamil implemented TM Master on all its ships. This digital ship management system provides datadriven preventative, corrective and condition-based maintenance. By using this system, Zamil benefits from reduced
risk, more effective and economical procurement, and better-informed crews.
“We initially started this project before Covid, but it was unfortunately delayed due to the pandemic,” commented Mr Jabbari. “So, the final system wasn’t actually installed until this year.”
This is not the only step that Zamil has taken to improve its operations. The company also developed its own dashboard dedicated to the remote monitoring of its vessels.
Currently operational on four of Zamil’s vessels, the dashboard tracks important
data sets to keep the owners informed and up to date.
“This is a very unique system, which we are incredibly proud of,” said Mr Jabbari, “and it actually evolved from Aramco requesting fuel monitoring and remote monitoring on their vessels. After looking at our options, we decided that we wouldn’t stop there, because we wanted to create a dashboard that consolidated all kinds of data. From weather alerts and CCTV to condition-based maintenance, fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions, we wanted Aramco to have easy access to it all.
“Developing the dashboard itself was a huge undertaking, but we managed it with the help of our partners Inmarsat, AVEVA and Hallin.”
Zamil does everything possible to stay ahead of its customers’ needs. Whether it is close interaction or daily calls, the company goes above and beyond to ensure its customers feel heard. This dedication was especially helpful during the Kingdom-wide implementation of Saudization. Saudization, or the Saudi Nationalisation Program, is a Kingdom-wide initiative implemented by the Ministry of Labour, which requires companies to hire Saudi nationals.
“We were well ahead of Saudization; we knew that it was going to be a requirement, and we were already training Saudi nationals at the time,” explained Mr Jabbari. “We were the exact same way with environmental standards, becoming the first company to gain its ISO certification based on the IAOGP’s guidelines.
“We have an experienced team who has operated all over the world, and regularly encounters new elements that we are yet to implement. As a company, Zamil is always quick to take new market developments on board, often before our clients have even asked for them.”
Here in the Kingdom, our waters are much calmer and shallower compared to the North Sea and the South China Sea, and vessel designs are mainly targeted towards operators who are working in these deep waters.
Elevating the environment
When it comes to sustainability, the company has dedicated employees focused on waste management, it makes sure to vet all its recycling streams and works hard to find new and inventive ways to reduce waste.
Zamil is fully committed to advancing its environmental credentials, particularly when it comes to reducing fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions.
“We have developed new hull designs, which are perfect for our seas,” revealed Mr Jabbari. “Here in the Kingdom, our waters are much calmer and shallower compared to the North Sea and the South China Sea, and vessel designs are mainly targeted towards operators who are working in these deep waters.
“Those hulls don’t provide any benefits to our clients’ operations, so we
created a much leaner and more fuelefficient alternative.”
So far, feedback for this design has been very positive, although there is still a long way to go. With the design breaking away from the norm, some industry professionals have been reluctant to get behind it.
“Certain people look at the power output of a vessel using our hull, and they find it hard to believe that it requires so little,” said Mr Jabbari. “So, it’s just a matter of showcasing what it is capable of.”
Ever innovative, Zamil intends to take its enthusiasm and flair to several industry events this year, one being the hotly anticipated ADIPEC.
“We love to meet new clients and catch up with our existing ones,” commented Mr Jabbari. “And events like ADIPEC are a great opportunity to do this. We attend this event every year, and always have
a great time. Another fantastic exhibition that always draws us in is the Saudi Maritime Conference. It is always excellent value and focuses specifically on the Saudi maritime sector, meaning everyone we meet is there for the same reason.”
Constant collaboration
Everything that Zamil has achieved so far has been accomplished with the help of its amazing suppliers.
“Zamil excels in being flexible and has always been great when it comes to making quick decisions, which has really helped us stand out against the competition,” said Mr Jabbari. “However, another hugely i mportant factor are our suppliers. Like everything in life, there are good times and bad times in business, and good suppliers
will stand by their partners during those times of hardship. Whether its cash flow difficulties or a need to reduce costs, they will remain proactive and supportive.
“Our suppliers always engage with us in an excellent manner, they do a great job collaborating on our new building plans, and they are extremely important to ensuring we can maintain a safe and reliable operation.”
As it looks to the future, Zamil intends to continue to grow and explore new potential revenue streams, while supporting its suppliers, customers and colleagues.
“We operate with a non-blame culture, and that is something we have worked hard to implement over the years,” said Mr Jabbari, in conclusion. “And so far, we have been successful in that. Every day, I look forward to working with the amazing team at Zamil, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us in the future, especially as we continue to implement new solutions to improve our environmental credentials. The world is advancing towards a greener, cleaner tomorrow, and it will only be achievable if we all work together.” n
Babak Jabbari General Manager of the Marine Operations Division
Al Mutawa Marine Works is a national corporation of Abu Dhabi, formed with the mission to provide highly specialised technical services to the offshore oil and gas industry. Sales and Business Development Manager Jehad Abbas spoke to Hannah Barnett about how the company continues to thrive.
AL MUTAWA MARINE WORKS I PROFILE
Over the last four and a half decades, Al Mutawa Marine Works has grown and developed into a truly specialised enterprise. The company provides a range of services for the offshore oil and gas industry to an exceptionally high standard.
“We have had a good track record providing long-term services to clients such as ADNOC, NPCC, NMDC and KOC,” said Jehad Abbas, Sales and Business Development Manager. “We number 750 employees and are also proud members of the International Marine Contractor Association (IMCA).”
Al Mutawa Marine Works was formed in 1978 in Abu Dhabi and continues
to operate there, with a head office in Musaffah, in the industrial area of the city
The company has grown, organically but significantly, over the years. Since starting with one vessel, the Al Mutawa Marine Works fleet now consists of 28 vessels, and the business is expecting to incorporate four more newbuilds by mid-2025.
Al Mutawa Marine Works has an impressive turnover of $150 million, the equivalent of half a billion in Dirhams. Operations are spread across two sites, with one large main jetty area of 3,200 square metres and a sprawling workshop of 2,400 square metres.
A varied offering
Part of the strength of Al Mutawa Marine Works comes from the diversity of its fleet.
“We already have nine offshore support vessels,” said Mr Abbas. “We have several for maintenance, including an external firefighting system, and three diving support vessels. We also have superior landing crafts and are expecting to receive two more in 2025. We have crew boats, anchor handling supply vessels and anchor handling tugs.”
Besides this strong fleet, the company also stands out from its competitors thanks to its range of diving facilities.
Services offered include installation and maintenance of subsea pipelines, fuel structure inspections and installations of new conductor guides for wellhead towers. The company also provides subsea excavation, alongside demolition and removal services for subsea pipelines and offshore structures. General diving services including seabed surveys, debris clearing and assisting in rig moves
“We have lots of activity with diving,” Mr Abbas explained, “and we normally hire the vessels for the long-term. For each project, it takes three to four years, sometimes up to five years. As well as the vessels, we can provide the crews and the services.”
Al Mutawa Marine Works carries out all diving operations in compliance with IMCA guidelines. The company also maintains a certified Quality Management System wherein all diving activities are in compliance with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015.
The company also runs a successful training centre, which promises to keep customers up to date with the latest technology, courses and certificates required by the sector. As well as diving courses, the training centre also offers firefighting, and health and safety workshops.
“Our main clients, like ADNOC or NPCC, want to hire our vessels, but they also need their crew to be up to date with the latest certifications,”
Mr Abbas added. “So, in this case, we give these crews the option to come and take courses at our training centre.”
Strong partnerships
Al Mutawa Marine Works is the kind of company that is available to help its customers on a 24/7 basis. “Sometimes something unpredictable happens, for example a repair is needed,” said Mr Abbas. “Our customers know they can always contact us at any time of day or night. We are always there.”
“Sometimes something unpredictable happens, for example a repair is needed... Our customers know they can always contact us at any time of day or night. We are always there.”
Sales and Business Development Manager Jehad Abbas
“The market is up and down,”...“Oil prices fluctuate all the time, especially in this region. But I enjoy this job because I like dealing with different types of people, from different cultures. This has allowed me to develop excellent skills in areas like customer service, communication, problem-solving and negotiation. This all helps with the growth of the company.”
Sales and Business Development Manager Jehad Abbas
Because each vessel requires so many parts, the company relies on a vast network of close to 80 suppliers. Building strong relationships is therefore vital.
“I communicate with our suppliers all the time,” said Mr Abbas. “It is all about maintaining long-term business relationships. We ask them to send us a current price list with everything they are carrying . We like to keep stock on the safe side, because sometimes urgent equipment is needed.
“Normally, for each item we buy in, we also buy at least one in stock. For example, if a customer needs one gasket, we buy two or three, because the same engine will exist on another vessel. We still run out of stock sometimes, so we always have a reference about which supplier carries which part, so we know who can help us,”
The company also encourages face-to-face interactions through the supply chain, including visits to each other’s sites or networking opportunities at exhibitions, to keep abreast of any new developments.
This close dialogue is something which contributes to Al Mutawa Marine Works’ strong and proven ability to understand the needs of its customers.
“We are always working towards those needs and we can quickly respond to ` any changing requirements,” Mr Abbas explained. “If there is any problem, we strive to understand the problem and to come back with a solution we can all agree on.”
By 2026, the company aims to grow the fleet to 36 vessels which will be complimented by expansion into Kuwait and Qatar. However, this expansion comes with its own challenges, many of them bureaucratic.
“There is a lot of paperwork required to go to any new market,” said Mr Abbas . “We must start with a registration and pre-qualification process, just to have an office there. So, we are working on that, but we are still planning to expand, because those are two significant markets.”
For Mr Abbas, dealing with a diverse range of challenges is a key part of what makes life at Al Mutawa Marine Works so exciting.
“The market is up and down,” he concluded. “Oil prices fluctuate all the time, especially in this region. But I enjoy this job because I like dealing with different types of people, from different cultures. This has allowed me to develop excellent skills in areas like customer service, communication, problem-solving and negotiation. This all helps with the growth of the company.” n
