Anglo-Eastern Univan Group (Anglo-Eastern), a global leader in independent ship management services, has strengthened its presence in Greece as part of its long‑term commitment to one of the world’s most prominent and competitive shipping markets.

This commitment is reflected in closer engagement between Anglo‑Eastern’s global leadership and its team serving the Greek market. Notably, the Group held its Technical Summit in Athens from 4-5 May, bringing together senior leaders from across the globe to discuss pressing topics amidst an increasingly complex operational and geopolitical environment. Greece was selected as one of four locations for Anglo‑Eastern’s inaugural series of technical summits, highlighting its strategic importance within the Group.

As part of Anglo-Eastern’s ongoing effort to deepen its engagement with the Greek market, Martin Rowe, Vice President of Business Development at Anglo-Eastern, has also permanently relocated from the Group’s headquarters in Hong Kong to Athens to collaborate more closely with Greek shipowners.

Anglo‑Eastern’s footprint in Greece has deepened since the acquisition of Euronav Ship Management Hellas in April 2024. Over the past two years, the priority has been thoughtful integration: bringing the Hellas Office into Anglo-Eastern’s wider ecosystem of operational systems and global expertise, while preserving what made the local team strong in the first place: market knowledge, practical decision-making, and a culture that reflects the Greek way of doing business. This approach has already strengthened Anglo-Eastern’s position in the region and deepened its technical capability in the tanker segment.

Rowe’s move complements the leadership of Evangelos Kartimpelis, Managing Director of Anglo‑Eastern’s Hellas Office, and further strengthens Anglo‑Eastern’s on‑the‑ground presence.

Niraj Nanda, Chief Commercial Officer at Anglo-Eastern, commented, “Greece is a market that rewards competence, consistency and judgement proven over time and under pressure. We have focused on listening first, integrating carefully, and earning credibility through delivery.”

Kartimpelis, who has led Anglo‑Eastern’s Hellas Office since September 2025, said: “Martin’s relocation adds further strength to a strong team already deeply rooted in the local market. Greek owners rightly expect speed, flexibility and solutions tailored to the specific requirements of each fleet. Our role is to understand each owner’s operating philosophy and support it with the scale, systems and experience of a global ship manager. That balance – local insight supported by international capability – is what I believe defines Anglo-Eastern’s presence in the Greek market.”

Rowe brings more than three decades of commercial experience in the maritime industry, having worked across Hong Kong, London and the broader European region in senior advisory and leadership roles. His connection to Greece predates his professional career having lived in the country for almost a decade during his formative years.

“Returning to Greece now, to work closely with Anglo-Eastern’s Hellas Office, feels less like a relocation and more like a second homecoming.” Rowe said, “It brings together my professional experience with a market that played an early role in shaping how I still see shipping today: not as a transactional business, but one built through long-term partnerships”.

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YES Forum continues its mission of bringing shipping closer to the younger generation through dynamic initiatives implemented across Greece as part of the YES TOUR TO SCHOOLS initiative. From Pyrgos in Ilia, Neapoli in Laconia and Karpenisi, to Thessaloniki and Hydra, and from Alexandroupoli, Orestiada, Didymoteicho and Komotini, to Chios, Oinousses, Psara and Fournoi islands, as well as Kavala, Xanthi, Patras, Rethymno, Chania and Heraklion, thousands of students and university attendees had the opportunity to discover the world of shipping through interactive presentations and direct engagement with industry professionals.

A particularly important milestone has been the integration of the YES Forum Shipping Course into the Skills Workshops curriculum for 6th Grade Primary School and 3rd Grade Junior High School students. The response from both students and educators has been exceptionally positive, as the program familiarizes young people with the maritime sector while opening new professional horizons. At the same time, the active participation of the shipping community has been instrumental, with numerous companies actively supporting the initiative, including through the donation of the book “Towards the Sea…” to students.

The conclusions drawn from these initiatives are especially revealing. Even in regions with a strong maritime tradition, it was often the first time students had the

opportunity to interact with professionals from the industry. The absence of similar initiatives in regional areas highlights a significant gap, at a time when the need for meaningful career guidance is more pressing than ever.

At the same time, the initiatives highlighted the connection between the shipping industry and critical national issues such as the demographic challenge and brain drain, as the lack of information and opportunities often leads young people to seek professional prospects abroad. Early exposure to career opportunities and direct engagement with the market can act as a catalyst for retaining and empowering

human capital within Greece. Furthermore, the active involvement of the maritime community has proven essential, with many companies offering tangible support to the initiative, including the distribution of the book “Towards the Sea…” to students.

Particular emphasis is also placed on supporting young people in their transition to the job market through:

• • More than 130 Open Days at shipping companies that had never previously opened their offices to young people before our initiatives.
• • Career Days featuring dozens of companies and more than 1,500 interviews with students starting from their first year at university.
• • 175 active mentor–mentee pairs, strengthening knowledge transfer and bridging generations.
• • The YES-CV platform, providing a direct and effective connection between young professionals and the job market.

The presentation of the findings from these initiatives will take place on Friday, June 5, at the Posidonia Conference Hall, within the framework of Posidonia’s Youth Day, which this year celebrates 10 years of continuous presence and has become a key institution for connecting the younger generation with the shipping industry.

During the international panel discussion, which will be held for the first time, the challenges and opportunities of the sector will be highlighted, as well as the role of young people in shaping the future of global shipping.

With consistency and a long-term vision, YES Forum stands as the only platform engaging all levels of education, continuously investing in the younger generation by creating meaningful bridges between education and the labor market, while expanding young people’s access to one of the most strategic, international and outward-looking sectors of the Greek economy. At the same time, we continuously develop and update our educational material in line with the evolving needs of the market and the sector’s requirements.

Given that the demographic challenge and brain drain remain critical national issues, timely information, equal access to knowledge and meaningful connection with real professional opportunities emerge as key factors for retaining and empowering human capital in Greece.

Registration: https://www.eventora.com/en/Events/YEStoShipping26?c=p

Info: www.yes-forum.com

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A Conversation with Athanasios Vrachinopoulos, CEO of Polinoe

In an era where digitalization is no longer an option but a necessity, Polinoe stands out as a trailblazer in the maritime sector. We sat down with the company’s CEO, Athanasios Vrachinopoulos, to discuss how they are reshaping traditional processes through innovation.

- Mr. Vrachinopoulos, Polinoe is gaining significant attention lately. What is the core philosophy behind your services?

Athanasios Vrachinopoulos: Our mission is simple: to empower the shipping industry with tools that enhance efficiency and accuracy. I am proud to say that we are the first Greek company to provide such specialized digital products and services. We understand the Greek shipping mentality and combine it with world-class technology.

- Your Charter Party Platform is a flagship product. How does it help a busy chartering department?

Athanasios Vrachinopoulos: The platform is an "all-in-one" digital environment for drafting and managing charter parties with unprecedented speed and legal precision. However, we realized that time is the biggest enemy in our industry. That is why we offer a unique Full Drafting Service. For clients who simply don’t have the time, our expert team takes over and drafts the entire charter party for them, delivering it in as little as 2 to 24 hours. We handle the complexity so they can focus on the deal.

 - We are also hearing a lot about your new platform, Dockstation. What is its purpose?

Athanasios Vrachinopoulos: Dockstation is our latest innovation designed specifically to streamline the dry-docking process. Managing a dry-dock is traditionally a monumental administrative task. Dockstation digitizes every step—from planning to execution—ensuring transparency, cost control, and a significant reduction in workload for technical departments.

 - What is your message to the maritime community for 2026?

Athanasios Vrachinopoulos: At Polinoe, we don't just sell software; we provide solutions born from maritime experience. Whether it's through our platforms or our dedicated drafting services, our goal is to ensure that our clients are always one step ahead in a competitive global market.

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To be introduced during Posidonia, the new Remote Inspection Technique (RIT) center in Athens joins Bureau Veritas’ global network of 7 centers, with over 15 qualified drone surveyors, to promote safety whilst supporting operational efficiencies for shipowners.

Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) will launch its latest Remote Inspection Technique (RIT) center in Athens, Greece, during a Digital Solutions Seminar at Posidonia 2026. The event – How Bureau Veritas Digital Solutions Reduce Risk, Lower Cost & Enhance Asset Value – will bring together industry leaders to explore how digitalization is reshaping risk management, operational performance, and supporting asset values across shipping. 

The new Athens RIT center – which joins a network that has grown from five qualified surveyors in early 2025 to more than 15 across approximately seven global centers – highlights BV's commitment to equipping shipowners and operators with data-driven tools as they navigate mounting regulatory and commercial pressures. BV plans to expand its RIT network to 16 centers with over 40 qualified surveyors by the end of 2026.  

RIT is a field-based methodology in which a trained surveyor deploys drone and UAV technology whilst onboard to inspect confined spaces such as ballast tanks and cargo holds, eliminating the need for physical entry into potentially hazardous areas. The approach is distinct from traditional remote survey engagements, which are limited to document review, conducted at a distance, and do not involve the physical presence of a surveyor aboard the vessel, which significantly impacts the scope of the survey.  

Safety and operational efficiency are central to the case for RIT adoption. Conventional ballast tank inspections require five to seven personnel to enter spaces that may contain toxic gases, extreme humidity, and temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius. BV estimates that RIT reduces confined-space entry risk by 60 to 70 percent, using a single qualified surveyor and a single-deck companion. 

The operational model also delivers broader commercial value for shipowners that extends beyond cost reductions. Structured, auditable inspection records supported by AI-processed drone data help owners safely extend asset life, preserve resale value, and provide a clearer picture to lenders and insurers about a vessel’s condition with objective asset health indicators that banks, hull cover and P&I clubs increasingly expect. For charterers and cargo owners operating within tightening ESG and CII frameworks, data-backed evidence of condition from class-supported inspections can also support chartering decisions and strengthen sustainability reporting.  

Alex Gregg-Smith, President, Bureau Veritas, Marine and Offshore, said: "The expansion of our RIT network into Athens reflects both the maturity of the technology and the strategic importance of Greece to international shipping. Each of our RIT surveyors is a subject-matter expert for a specific vessel type, and the combined approach of using AI to analyze drone-collected imagery before the surveyor validates the findings gives owners and operators a genuinely robust, two-stage quality-assurance process. As shipping faces greater scrutiny from lenders, charterers, and regulators, our role is evolving from compliance referee to data-driven risk partner. We see the offshore sector’s current trajectory – where drone-assisted inspection is already becoming mandated for high-risk activities – as a strong indication of where sea-going vessel inspection is heading."  

Bureau Veritas’ remote inspection and digital survey offering is designed to support clients at every stage of their digitalization journey. From operators exploring initial efficiency gains to advanced fleets leveraging integrated data ecosystems, BV provides scalable solutions aligned with each client’s level of digital maturity, enabling a practical and progressive approach to enhanced performance and risk management. Complementing these capabilities, BV also offers SMART and cyber security notations that support shipowners in structuring and advancing their digital strategies. These notations provide formal class recognition for both current digital maturity and forward-looking commitments, encouraging continuous improvement while aligning operational, regulatory, and investment priorities. 

The exclusive event will take place on the 4th June between 15:00 - 16:15 in Hall 1, room 1B – RSVP here

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The Naming Ceremony for ETME’s USSPS (Unmanned Semi-fixed Sea Platform for Maritime Surveillance) unmanned floating maritime surveillance platform took place at the premises of Salamis Shipyards. The platform was named “Panoptis”, inspired by Argus Panoptes from Greek mythology, as a symbolic reference to continuous surveillance, vigilance and uninterrupted operational monitoring in the maritime domain. The naming of the platform was performed by Dr. Georgios D. Pateras, Vice President of Contships Management Inc. and former President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping.

The ceremony marked another important milestone on the path towards the completion of the project, which is being implemented by ETME, as programme coordinator, in collaboration with Salamis Shipyards and the partners of the multinational consortium. The construction of the platform at Salamis Shipyards highlights the importance of the domestic industrial base, while the overall project confirms the active role of Greek expertise in the development of advanced maritime surveillance capabilities.

The Panoptis platform incorporates ETME’s patent in the field of regional network-centric maritime surveillance and is the first of its kind worldwide, introducing a new category of unmanned naval platforms: USSPSs, or Unmanned Semi-fixed Sea Platforms. It combines technological elements from offshore hydrocarbon extraction, offshore wind farms, unmanned systems and artificial intelligence, with the aim of integrating and incorporating field data through advanced algorithms.

The Panoptis platform is being implemented under the USSPS programme, within the framework of the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), under the supervision of the General Directorate for Defence Investments and Armaments (GDDIA) of the Hellenic Ministry of National Defence and in cooperation with the Republic of Cyprus. The project includes the participation of France’s Naval Group, whose role as technical coordinator has been catalytic, Spain’s Navantia, as well as Applied Intelligence Analytics Limited, Cyprus Research and Innovation Center Ltd, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Stichting Maritiem Research Instituut Nederland, Prolexia SARL, Multimedia Workshop PLC, Sener Aeroespacial S.A., SignalGeneriX Limited, SMST Designer & Constructors B.V., Techlam SAS, Tecnobit SLU and Unmanned Teknologies Applications S.L.

On the Greek side, in addition to ETME, the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) also participates in the project. This composition highlights the scope and significance of European industrial and research cooperation in the defence sector, as well as ETME’s role in coordinating complex programmes with an international footprint.

During the event, remarks and addresses were delivered by Mr. George Panagopoulos, Mayor of Salamis; Mr. Gkikas, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy; Dr. Dimitrios Terzis, Secretary General for Research and Innovation; Dr. Athanasios Dokos, Secretary General for National Security; Major General Ioannis Bouras, General Director of GDDIA; Mr. Pantelis Tzortzakis, Chairman of the Board and CEO of HCDI; Mr. Patrick Mauffrey, USSPS Project Director for Naval Group; and Dr. Georgios Koros, President and CEO of Salamis Shipyards.

Mr. Antonis Peppas, CEO of ETME, stated: “The long journey of technological development is being completed today. In the years to come, Panoptis will provide real field data for the training of advanced algorithms, offer maritime surveillance imagery, and at the same time serve as a testing ground for technologies in a real maritime environment. Its applications also extend to non-defence purposes, providing weather, sea state, environmental and critical infrastructure monitoring data with high reliability. The technology is such that it allows a network of platforms such as Panoptis to become part of the Shield of Achilles and other applications of interest relating to critical infrastructure and navigation safety.”

The presence of representatives of the State, the defence and research community, industry and the entities involved highlighted the importance of the USSPS programme as a flagship initiative in the fields of defence, innovation and maritime surveillance, with a strong Greek and European footprint. Today’s ceremony confirms the steady progress of the project and the systematic cooperation of all parties involved towards its successful completion.

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Project Connect successfully concluded its high-impact professional readiness seminar, “My Success Story in Shipping: How Project Connect Helps me Navigate It,” held on Wednesday, 29 th April at the “Melina Merkouri” auditorium of Metropolitan College, a happy member or Project Connect-, at Marousi. Driven by the visionary philosophy of the Youth Elevated - one of the pillars of the Project Connect- the event served as a strategic platform to demonstrate that Project Connect is the definitive bridge connecting candidates directly with shipowners and maritime corporations. The goal was to empower young people with a “conscious internal compass” and the practical “know-how” required to meet the high standards of the shipowning community, ensuring that the best emerging talent finds its place in the Greek maritime industry.

The call to action by Project Connect received an overwhelming response, bringing together Registered Members of its pioneering CV Platform, Metropolitan College students and alumni, Maritime Academies -- young aspirants eager to chart a successful course in the demanding maritime sector. Their presence underscored the critical need for substantive guidance and tangible support during the initial steps of their professional placement.

The seminar functioned as a bridge between theory and practice, with participants demonstrating a profound interest in market “know-how” and the bidirectional exchange of information regarding the evolving needs of both the youth and shipping corporations.

A Vision for Conscious Evolution Dr. Yiannis Kalogerakis, Culture Architect and President of the IUPT, set the tone for the evening as a keynote speaker and honored founder member of the Project Connect, stating: “In a rapidly changing world, our objective is to assist young people in developing a conscious internal compass. Success in shipping is not merely a matter of technical knowledge, but primarily one of resilience, integrity, and unshakeable values. Through Project Connect and CV Platform the aim is to focus to the needs of the youth while simultaneously preparing them for the actual requirements of shipping firms. This platform is not just a database; it is the foundation upon which the Project Connect, alongside the shipowning community, will shape the future leaders of shipping.”

Expert Insights and Front-Line Experience Attendees had the opportunity to attend high-level presentations covering the full spectrum of modern shipping:

- Geopolitical Analysis: Dr. Louise Tumchewicz-Research Fellow, Centre for War Studies, analyzed the challenges of 2026, specifically examining how ongoing global conflicts and wars have impacted the shipping industry and illustrating the resilience of global trade amidst international conflicts.

- Mental Resilience: Dr. Elia Gourgouris, President, The Happiness Centre- Best-selling Author, presented the HEART-SET approach, offering strategic tools for maintaining happiness and peak performance in high-pressure environments.

- From the Industry Arena to Social Impact: Ms. Irene Notias, Founder and Director of Project Connect, a prominent figure with deep-seated expertise and over 30 years of experience as a marine fuel broker for global giants and Marine Fuel Broker Business Owner, shifted the focus to the practical realities of the maritime workplace, she shared invaluable insights into essential office practices and the high-level expectations shipping firms hold for their employees. With the authenticity of a professional who understands the market’s pulse, she described how courage and reinvention led to the creation of Project Connect. Her address is more than a retrospective; it is a commitment that her vision remains the active support of the youth, ensuring that members of the CV Platform receive not just knowledge, but genuine employment opportunities, bridging the gap between new talent and leading shipowning offices. A key highlight was her candid discussion on the industry’s 24/7 nature; when asked about their readiness for such a commitment, approximately one-third of the students responded affirmatively. This interaction served as a constructive “reality check” underscoring Project Connect’s vital mission: to bridge the gap between academic theory and the mental resilience required to thrive in the demanding shipping environment.

Dialogue and Action: The Next Generation Center Stage The event reached its peak with an exceptionally interactive Q&A session, where the inexhaustible interest of the youth transformed the auditorium into a vibrant space for dialogue and the exchange of ideas.

Participants took an active role, posing pivotal questions that reflected their thirst for substantive information and mentorship from the seasoned speakers.

The evening concluded on a high note, with evaluation forms confirming the superior quality of the organization and the high satisfaction of the attendees. One of the most impactful moments was the lottery of two valuable internship positions, sponsored by Project Connect members. The winning students received a definitive “ticket” for immediate entry into the professional arena, marking the first decisive step toward a successful career in the maritime industry.

The CV Platform: A Strategic Pillar of Connectivity As one of the three foundational pillars of Project Connect, the CV Platform serves as the ultimate strategic hub, seamlessly uniting shipping companies with a curated pool of registered candidates. By bridging the gap between education and the industry, the platform ensures that emerging talent is effectively integrated into the Greek maritime cluster, finding its rightful place within the world’s leading shipping community.

Project Connect is a non-profit organization serving as a strategic accelerator for the next generation of maritime leaders. Through the CONNECT Youth Employability Pipeline—a comprehensive “one-stop shop” and a “Rainbow of Services”—the organization guides young talent from early awareness to real employment. This journey begins with the acclaimed “Adopt a Ship” program, which fosters maritime identity in schools, and culminates in the CV Platform, the organization’s foundational pillar that seamlessly unites shipping companies with curated candidates.

Today, Project Connect represents a collective force of 65 shipowners (including prominent members of the Union of Greek Shipowners), over 40 maritime service companies, and leading academic institutions— all dedicated to preserving and sustaining the Greek Shipping Success Story.

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From insurance and risk management to energy transition, digitalisation and maritime security, the Posidonia 2026 conference programme highlights an industry actively reshaping itself in response to geopolitical disruption and structural change.

This year’s programme, set to begin weeks ahead of the exhibition itself, reflects a shipping industry navigating one of its most complex operating environments in decades, where war, sanctions, tariffs, insurance premiums, shifting trade routes and regulatory pressure are redefining both risk and opportunity.

The first events begin in early May, underlining how Posidonia has evolved into a multi-week platform for dialogue rather than a single exhibition moment.

“Posidonia has always been more than an exhibition. It is a platform where the industry comes together to address real-world challenges and shape its future direction,” said Theodore Vokos, Managing Director, Posidonia Exhibitions S.A. “This year’s conference programme reflects the urgency of the issues facing shipping today, particularly the impact of geopolitics, energy transition and technological change. The discussions taking place, even before the exhibition officially opens, highlight how critical collaboration and dialogue have become for the industry.”

Kicking off the calendar, Marine Insurance Greece (6-7 May) will address how the insurance market is responding to escalating geopolitical tensions and operational risks. With sessions covering sanctions, the rise of the “dark fleet”, US policy shifts and war risk dynamics, the conference will explore how the sector is adapting to an increasingly volatile global landscape. “With recent geopolitical events, shipping is most definitely back in the spotlight, highlighting once again just how dependent the global supply chain is on the shipping sector,” said the event’s organiser Daniel Casey, Managing Director, Cannon Events.

Closely following, on May 7, the RightShip Conference titled Redefining Maritime Safety Through Data, Trust, and Collaboration will turn attention to data, transparency and collaboration as key enablers of safer and more sustainable shipping. “Behind every data point is a human outcome; a safer voyage, a more sustainable decision, a seafarer returning home safely,” said Steen Lund, CEO, RightShip. “As an industry, we have a responsibility to harness data not just for insight, but for impact. By working together, we can build a more transparent, connected and trusted maritime ecosystem that raises standards for everyone.”

On 20 May, the Naftemporiki Shipping Conference, “Shipping Between Global Powers: Where Geopolitics, Energy & Climate Shape the Future”, will further elevate the geopolitical theme, examining how global power dynamics, energy security and climate policy are reshaping shipping. The theme of this year’s event reflects this variability, focusing on the geopolitics of the sea, Greece’s role as an energy hub, the challenges of decarbonisation and developments in ports, shipbuilding and key market sectors. “We live in a time when shipping is not just affected by developments, it is at their center,” said Georgios Melissanidis, Publisher, Naftemporiki. “Shifting geopolitical balances and the accelerating energy transition are shaping a new, more demanding environment.”

Once Posidonia week begins, the conference programme intensifies, bringing together some of the industry’s most influential voices.

The Capital Link Maritime Leaders Summit (1 June), held in partnership with DNV, will mark 20 years of convening top-tier shipowners, financiers, and policymakers. The agenda reflects real-time global market priorities while highlighting the enduring leadership of the Greek shipping community, a cornerstone of international maritime trade and home to the world’s largest privately owned fleet.

Discussions will span global trade flows, geopolitics, energy transition and technology, with participation from leading Greek and international shipping groups. “Posidonia and our Summit are held at a critical time for the world and shipping,” said Nicolas Bornozis, CEO of Capital Link. “Our Summit brings together industry leaders at the highest level. It features the founders and leaders of Greece’s most influential shipping companies, together with key players from the global maritime industry. These are the leaders shaping where shipping is heading next.”

On 2 June, the TradeWinds Shipowners Forum Greece will tackle “Resilience in the face of disruption”, addressing how shipowners are managing risk in a world of geopolitical fragmentation, economic uncertainty and regulatory pressure.

With senior executives from major global shipping companies and financial institutions, the forum will explore how operators can navigate volatility, safeguard asset values and adapt to shifting trade patterns. It will table critical questions such as: how can shipping operate and invest successfully amid geopolitical chaos and how are tensions between US-China and Trump-era policies impacting global trade flows. “As the global shipping landscape grows more complex, our readers need more than news — they need perspective and connection, which comes together in Athens during Posidonia week,” said Julian Bray, Editor in Chief, TradeWinds.

Geopolitical risk and infrastructure security will also take centre stage at a seminar organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Athens under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland within the framework of Poland’s presidency of the Council of the Baltic Sea. The seminar seeks to examine the evolving relationship between maritime security and energy security, to identify shared vulnerabilities across Europe’s maritime spaces, and to advance practical cooperation between the Baltic and Mediterranean regions. The focus will also be on the geopolitical dimension of hybrid threats in the maritime space and how the Baltic and Mediterranean maritime spaces, despite their different geopolitical contexts, face comparable structural vulnerabilities.

“Geography separates the Baltic from the Mediterranean, but hybrid threats, sabotage risks, geopolitical competition and energy flows connect them in practice and require coordinated actions,” noted chargé d’affaires at the Embassy, Wojciech Ponikiewski, highlighting the need for coordinated international responses.

The HELMEPA International Conference (3 June) introduces Ocean Intelligence in MetaShipping: four interconnected forms of intelligence: ecological, human, technological, and financial, covering issues from biodiversity and crew skilling to AI, automation, and investment in the energy transition. Each essential, all connected. The audience brings together shipowners, maritime leaders, policymakers, regulators, financiers, academics, innovators, and the new generation, a full house where the right conversations happen with the right people.

To conclude, Vokos added: “Across all events, a clear narrative emerges: shipping is no longer operating at the margins of global developments — it is at their core.”

Posidonia 2026 is organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping and the Union of Greek Shipowners, with the support of the Municipality of Piraeus and the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee.

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ABB, a global leader in automation technology, is once again participating in Posidonia 2026, taking place from 1 to 5 June at the Metropolitan Expo in Athens. Posidonia is one of the most important maritime exhibitions in the world and serves as a key meeting point for ABB with customers, partners and industry professionals.

At booth 1.113, Hall 1, ABB will showcase integrated automation and digital management solutions for vessels and ports, supporting shipping companies in their efforts to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions and accelerate their digital transformation.

Among the solutions to be presented:

Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) for S.W. Cooling Pumps & E.R. Ventilation Fans The easiest and most efficient way to reduce electrical energy consumption is to install a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) to control the rotational speed of an electric motor.

ABB Dynafin™ ABB's revolutionary propulsion system achieves up to 25% higher efficiency compared to conventional systems, contributing significantly to reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

ABB Ability™ OneBox – Marine Signals Monitoring A simple and cost-effective digital solution that enables shipowners to collect and analyze vessel performance data in real time, supporting compliance with IMO's EEXI and CII indicators.

Variable Speed Shaft Generator (PTO/PTI) A system that harnesses the energy of the main engine for electrical power generation, with the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 17% and a smaller installation footprint of up to 20%.

ABB Ability™ Marine Cyber Security A comprehensive cyber security portfolio specifically designed for the maritime industry, in full compliance with IMO guidelines and IACS UR26/UR27 requirements.

Lifecycle Management Customized services for the analysis, optimization and extension of the lifecycle of vessels and fleets, ensuring safe and reliable operations at every stage.

Additionally, ABB will present a wide range of additional solutions and services for the maritime industry at its stand, covering the full spectrum of needs of modern vessels and ports.

"Posidonia is one of the most important opportunities for us to meet with industry professionals. We are here to demonstrate how ABB's technology helps shipping become more efficient, safe and sustainable, today and in the future," said Ioannis Kokotos, General Manager ABB, Greece & Cyprus.

With decades of experience in the maritime sector, ABB provides solutions that cover the entire lifecycle of a vessel, from design and construction to operation and maintenance.

Visit the stand 1.113, Hall 1 and discover how ABB can support your goals for a more efficient and sustainable shipping industry.

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The Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre (MERC) has welcomed Cargill as its newest member, broadening the industry collaboration working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the existing global shipping fleet. 

Cargill’s membership strengthens MERC by adding the perspective of a major charterer to the Centre’s work. This addition reflects the growing role that commercial operators can play in helping identify, assess and scale practical emissions-reduction measures for ships already in service.   

Together with Drydocks World, who joined MERC earlier this year, the expanded membership strengthens the MERC’s role as a collaborative industry platform to pursue practical emissions reduction measures. 

MERC is an Athens-based non-profit initiative co-established by the Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub and leading shipowners Capital Group, Navios Maritime Partners, Neda Maritime Agency, Star Bulk and Thenamaris (Ships Management) Inc., with enabling support from Lloyd’s Register. The Centre was established to help accelerate near-term emissions reductions across the global fleet through technical collaboration and evidence-based analysis. 

Its work is focused on developing solutions and technical studies that can support investment and retrofit decisions that are matched or tailored to different vessel types and trading profiles. Current areas of study include energy-efficiency technologies, hydrodynamic performance, wind-assisted propulsion, alternative auxiliary power solutions and data-driven operational optimisation, as well as integration pathways for more complex onboard systems. 

Nikos Kakalis, Managing Director of MERC, said: “Cargill’s involvement reflects the growing role of charterers in shaping the industry’s decarbonisation pathways.  

“With extensive experience across vessel operations, energy efficiency and technology integration, Cargill brings the important charterer-led perspective on what solutions can realistically be implemented across different ship types and trading profiles” 

Chris Hughes, Decarbonization Lead for Cargill Ocean Transportation, said: “Joining MERC reflects Cargill’s focus on pragmatic decarbonization. We’re working with shipowners and industry partners to test and deploy solutions that cut emissions now, while building the capability to scale as the enabling framework develops.” 

He continued: “Progress depends on deep collaboration with vessel owners to shape solutions, and that’s exactly what MERC enables. As we continue advancing long-term pathways such as alternative fuels, we must also stay laser-focused on practical efficiency measures that deliver impact today. Together, we need to identify what already works, understand the gaps that remain, and scale viable approaches across hardware, operations, data, and digital, so we can drive meaningful, real-world improvements across the fleet.” 

Image: Nikos Kakalis, Managing Director of MERC

ELNAVI Newsletter  
More Information: ELNAVI,
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As the maritime industry moves toward connected, interoperable systems, Benefit Software and Procureship announced a strategic partnership that brings full integration between ERP and e-procurement to global shipping operations.

Benefit Software and Procureship have worked together to integrate two pipelines into one.

Through bHive, Benefit Software’s connectivity platform, the Benefit ERP pipeline and the Procureship procurement pipeline now operate as a single, centralised flow that starts from the customer, reaches the vendor, and back. Built on an open-frame architecture with security, data integrity, and AI at its core, bHive delivers the following capabilities to the maritime industry:

• • Speed of document exchange and automated end-to-end purchasing workflows, from requisition to invoice
• • Maritime companies can now access bHive’s vendor list with easy integration, zero onboarding, and zero overhead
• • Full monitoring of flow, with no more silos between systems
• • Scalability and security by design
• • Data integrity and accuracy across the full pipeline
• • AI-powered features to accelerate decision-making and reduce manual work

Integration has always been a core characteristic of Benefit Software’s ERP. For years, Benefit has invested in connecting systems and, more importantly, in connecting the processes that run through them. bHive is the natural next step of this philosophy — extending Benefit’s integration approach beyond its own ERP and into the wider maritime technology ecosystem. Procureship represents one of the most significant partnerships delivered through bHive to date. “Maritime software today is not defined by individual tools, but by how those tools work together as one process,” said Thomas Zavitsanos, Managing Director at Benefit Software.

“Integration has always been at the core of what we build at Benefit. With bHive and this partnership, we are bringing together the connection of ERP and partner workflows into a single, seamless flow — and that is what truly transforms our customers’ everyday operations.”

“This partnership creates immediate value for the entire maritime community we serve,” said Grigoris Lamprou, Co-founder and CEO at Procureship. “Through this integration, and with no additional effort, we now have seamless connectivity to more than 250 of Benefit’s maritime customers — giving them direct access to our procurement platform within the systems they already use every day.”

This close collaboration between Benefit Software and Procureship goes one step further with a special commercial offer for a selected group of customers and vendors, details of which will be announced in the coming weeks.

The integration is available to our customers and will be demonstrated at Posidonia 2026. Additional bHive integrations will continue to be announced as Benefit Software expands its ecosystem of connected maritime partners.

About Benefit Software: Benefit Software is a maritime technology company headquartered in Piraeus, Greece, and founded in 1994. The company develops software solutions purpose-built for the shipping industry, combining deep maritime expertise with a collaborative approach to clients and partners.

The company delivers a comprehensive Operational Ecosystem that connects maritime operations through three core pillars: an integrated ERP system for daily operations, Polus AI for data-driven insights and automation, and B-Hive, a connectivity platform enabling seamless integration with third-party systems.

Today, Benefit Software supports approximately 250 shipping companies and 1,700 vessels worldwide, with over 8,000 office users and 20,000 seafarers relying on its solutions, and more than 35 third-party integrations across maritime operations.

With over 30 years of industry experience and a 98% customer retention rate, Benefit Software supports shipping companies in their long-term digital transformation.

About Procureship: Established in 2016, Procureship is an innovative e-procurement platform based in Athens, Greece, with regional offices in Denmark and Singapore. The company manages a network of trusted suppliers across all major ports and regions, connecting them to over 110 buyers representing over 2,600 globally trading merchant vessels. Procureship makes purchasing critical components, supplies, and services for vessels easier, faster and more streamlined.

Its automated platform optimises the procurement process by eliminating unnecessary manual work and recommending suppliers through its unique machine learning algorithm and service providers marketplace. The platform also offers unique features including IHM maintenance, e-invoicing, tenders/contracts management, freight forwarding optimisation and upcoming vendor management. 

Procureship offers an unparalleled level of customer support with its team of dedicated account managers that offer daily support to all buyers and suppliers. 

ELNAVI Newsletter  
More Information: ELNAVI,
19, Aristidou str., Piraeus 185 31,
Tel.: +30 210 45.22.100, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.