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PHOTO COURTESY: POSIDONIA
The global shipping industry is preparing for Posidonia 2026, scheduled from June 1 to 5, 2026, in Athens, Greece. The event is widely known as one of the largest maritime exhibitions, bringing together professionals from different parts of the shipping sector.
Emission Control Technologies on Modern Ships: EGR, HP-SCR, and LP-SCR As environmental regulations become increasingly stringent, the maritime industry continues to adopt advanced emission control technologies to reduce harmful exhaust gases from marine diesel engines. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced strict limits on nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions through MARPOL Annex VI, driving shipowners and engine manufacturers to develop effective solutions that ensure compliance while maintaining engine performance. Among the most widely used technologies today are Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), High-Pressure Selective Catalytic Reduction (HP-SCR), and Low-Pressure Selective Catalytic Reduction (LP-SCR). Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) reduces NOx emissions by redirecting a portion of the engine’s exhaust gases back into the combustion chamber. By mixing exhaust gas with fresh intake air, the oxygen concentration inside the cylinder is lowered, resulting in reduced combustion temperatures. Since NOx formation increases at high temperatures, lowering the combustion temperature significantly reduces NOx production. EGR systems are integrated directly into the engine and are particularly effective for vessels operating in Emission Control Areas (ECAs) where strict environmental standards apply. High-Pressure Selective Catalytic Reduction (HP-SCR) is another widely adopted solution for meeting IMO Tier III requirements. In this system, exhaust gases pass through a catalytic reactor before reaching the turbocharger. A urea-based solution is injected into the exhaust stream, where it reacts with NOx inside the catalyst and converts it into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. Because the SCR unit is located in the high-pressure section of the exhaust system, exhaust temperatures remain sufficiently high for efficient catalytic reactions, making HP-SCR highly effective across a wide range of engine loads.
Ships Stuck in Hormuz Add Pressure on Global Shipping
Hundreds of vessels and thousands of seafarers remain stranded in and around the Strait of Hormuz as restrictions on maritime traffic continue despite recent efforts to reduce tensions in the region. The situation is creating additional challenges for the global shipping industry, particularly for tanker operators and cargo owners. Many shipping companies have kept vessels outside the area or delayed voyages due to ongoing security concerns. Several ships carrying oil and other cargoes remain unable to continue their planned routes, leading to longer transit times, scheduling disruptions, and increased operating costs.
France Arrests Russian Captain After Shadow Fleet Tanker Detained
France Arrests Russian Captain After Shadow Fleet Tanker Detained French authorities have arrested the Russian captain of a tanker suspected of being part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” after the vessel was detained in the Atlantic Ocean. The action is part of ongoing efforts by European countries to enforce sanctions related to Russian oil exports. The tanker, identified as Tagor, was intercepted by the French Navy with support from the United Kingdom and other partners. French officials said the vessel was sailing from Murmansk, Russia, and was suspected of operating under a false flag while traveling toward West Africa. Authorities reported that the ship did not fully comply with instructions during the operation, leading to its detention.
HELMEPA Conference Discusses Sustainability and Innovation at Posidonia 2026
Athens, Greece — Maritime sustainability, innovation, and investment were among the key topics discussed during the HELMEPA Conference held during the Posidonia 2026 exhibition in Athens, Greece.
The conference, organized by HELMEPA, was held under the theme
MSC Says Containership Struck Twice by Projectiles Near Iraq
MSC Says Containership Struck Twice by Projectiles Near Iraq A containership operated by MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company was struck by two projectiles while departing Iraq’s Port of Umm Qasr, raising new concerns about the safety of commercial shipping in the northern Persian Gulf. According to the company, the incident involved the Panama-flagged vessel MSC Sariska V and occurred shortly after the ship left port. MSC reported that the first projectile hit the vessel while the harbor pilot was still on board. A second projectile later struck an area used by crew members. Despite the damage, no injuries were reported among the seafarers. The company said the crew acted quickly and professionally to secure the vessel and its cargo following the incident.
Seven Filipino Seafarers from MV African Oasis Safely Return Home Amid Middle East Tensions
MANILA | Seven Filipino seafarers serving onboard MV African Oasis have safely returned to the Philippines after spending several months operating in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important yet sensitive maritime regions, amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Their arrival marks the end of a challenging deployment that required courage, professionalism, and resilience while working in an area that has remained under close international attention due to regional security concerns. Despite the uncertainties surrounding maritime operations in the region, the Filipino crew continued to perform their duties with dedication and commitment, helping ensure the uninterrupted movement of cargo and international trade.
Layag Program Officially Launched To Strengthen Passenger Assistance And Maritime Safety
The official launch and rollout of the “Lakbay Alalay ng Gobyerno” (LAYAG) Program was successfully conducted on May 25, 2026 at the Batangas City Port Passenger Terminal, gathering key government agencies, shipping operators, maritime stakeholders, and members of the public in support of safer, more efficient, and accessible sea travel in the Philippines. The event served as a major initiative aimed at strengthening passenger assistance and improving coordination in ports nationwide, especially during peak travel periods. The program seeks to provide better guidance, safety support, and public service for passengers traveling through major seaports across the country.
SMOU Holds Manila Nite 2026, Honors 114 Filipino Cadets
The Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU) gathered maritime leaders, shipping partners, union members, and cadets during the SMOU Manila Nite and Wavelink CadetsPlus Graduation held on 22 May 2026 at Conrad Manila.
AIM, DMMA Sign MOA for Maritime Leadership and Officer Development Program
A major step toward strengthening maritime leadership education in the Philippines was formally marked today as Asian Institute of Management and DMMA College of Southern Philippines signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)during a formal ceremony held at the AIM Campus in Makati City. The partnership officially launched the Postgraduate Certificate in Maritime Leadership and Officer Development Program, an executive-level academic initiative designed to enhance leadership, communication, management, and decision-making skills among maritime officers, educators, and industry professionals.
Ship Stability and States of Stability
Ship stability is the ability of a vessel to return to its original upright position after being affected by external forces such as wind, waves, cargo movement, or turning actions. Stability is one of the most important factors in ship safety because it helps prevent excessive listing, capsizing, and cargo shifting during a voyage. The stability of a ship depends on the relationship between its center of gravity (G), center of buoyancy (B), and metacenter (M). When a ship heels, the buoyant force acts upward through the center of buoyancy, while the ship's weight acts downward through the center of gravity. The position of these points determines whether the vessel will return to an upright position, remain in its new position, or continue to heel further.
Main Engine Accumulator The Main Engine Accumulator is an essential component in modern marine diesel engine systems, designed to maintain stable hydraulic or pneumatic pressure for critical engine operations. Installed within the main engine control and actuator system, the accumulator stores pressurized fluid or gas energy and releases it instantly when required. This ensures smooth, reliable, and rapid operation of important engine functions, particularly during sudden load changes or emergency situations onboard. In large two-stroke marine engines, the accumulator commonly supports systems such as the exhaust valve actuator, fuel oil pressure booster, and engine lubrication components. By maintaining consistent pressure, it helps ensure accurate fuel injection timing and proper exhaust valve operation, both of which are vital for engine efficiency and safe performance. The accumulator also reduces pressure fluctuations within the system, minimizing stress on pumps, pipelines, and control equipment. Another important function of the accumulator is providing backup pressure during temporary power or pump failure. In the event of a sudden drop in system pressure, the stored energy inside the accumulator can immediately compensate, allowing critical engine operations to continue safely for a short period. This contributes significantly to the reliability and operational safety of the vessel, especially during maneuvering or emergency conditions at sea.
Common Types of Knots Used on Board
A knot is a method of fastening or securing a rope by intertwining or looping it in a specific way. Knots are commonly used in maritime operations, rescue work, climbing, fishing, and daily activities to secure loads, join ropes, or create loops. Types of Knots and Their Definitions 1. Bowline Knot The Bowline is a strong loop knot used to create a fixed loop at the end of a rope that will not slip or tighten under load. It is widely used in maritime operations, rescue work, and mooring activities. Common Use: Securing lines to posts or rings Rescue operations Lifeboat and mooring work 2. Cleat Hitch A Cleat Hitch is a knot used to secure a rope around a cleat quickly and safely. It is commonly used on ships and boats for mooring lines. Common Use: Securing mooring ropes Docking operations Temporary rope fastening 3. Anchor Bend The Anchor Bend, also called the Fisherman’s Bend, is a knot used to attach a rope securely to an anchor, ring, or chain. Common Use: Attaching anchor lines Securing ropes to metal rings Maritime anchoring operations 4. Clove Hitch A Clove Hitch is a simple knot used for fastening a rope to a pole, post, or spar. It is easy to tie and untie but may slip if not under constant tension. Common Use: Temporary fastening Securing fenders Starting lashings 5. Figure Eight Knot The Figure Eight Knot is a stopper knot that prevents the rope from slipping through a pulley, block, or hole. It is stronger and safer than a simple overhand knot. Common Use: Preventing rope ends from fraying Climbing and rescue work Maritime safety applications
Condensation happens when warm air containing water vapor cools down and changes into liquid water droplets. This process usually takes place when moist air comes into contact with a cooler surface or when warm air rises into the atmosphere and loses heat. As the air temperature reaches its dew point, the water vapor turns into tiny droplets that can form clouds, fog, dew, or even rain. In the maritime environment, condensation is very common due to the constant presence of moisture, changing temperatures, and sea conditions. Seafarers may notice condensation on bridge windows, accommodation walls, cargo holds, pipelines, and machinery spaces. If not properly controlled, it can lead to slippery surfaces, corrosion, mold growth, damaged cargo, and reduced visibility onboard.
