RINA’s Hellenic Advisory Committee held its much-anticipated annual meeting, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and policy makers to advance the dialogue on maritime innovation and sustainability. The event showcased the Committee’s continued commitment to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the shipping industry in Greece and globally.

The event was opened with a welcome speech by George Youroukos, Executive Chairman of Technomar Shipping and Chairman of the Hellenic Advisory Committee, followed by a welcome and opening speech by Carlo Luzzatto, CEO and General Manager of RINA.

Paolo Moretti, CEO of RINA Services, then presented RINA’s growth as a classification society.

The company has continued to grow, becoming the third fastest-growing classification society worldwide in terms of year-on-year fleet growth. RINA’s Greek fleet has experienced significant growth over the past decade, nearly quadrupling its gross tonnage from around 6.2 million in 2015 to over 24.3 million in April 2025, while the number of vessels increased from 291 to 780.

Spyros Zolotas, Marine Vice President South Europe at RINA, commented “RINA’s continued growth and strong presence in the Greek shipping sector reflect the long-standing trust we’ve built through innovation, technical excellence, and a commitment to decarbonization. With nearly 800 Greek vessels now classed under RINA and a growing team of experts in Piraeus, we are proud to support the industry with cutting-edge digital tools, advanced newbuilding projects, and 360° consulting services. Events like the Hellenic Advisory Committee play a vital role by fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, ensuring the industry remains aligned with a future that prioritizes sustainability, viability, and safety in shipping”. Then he welcomed Mr. Roberto Cazzulo, who has been serving as Chairman of IACS since 2024, commenting “We are proud to see him in this important role, representing both RINA and the wider industry with distinction.”

Apostolos Zampelas from McKinsey delivered a presentation titled “Trade evolution and what shipping companies can do to win in the era”. Antonis Trakakis, Technical Director at RINA, provided an update on MEPC83 expected impact, which sparked highly constructive debate. RINA’s innovation strategy is built on the belief that collective expertise drives success. As part of this, RINA is establishing Open Innovation Hubs in key global locations actively collaborating with industry, academia, and government to accelerate technology adoption and co-develop impactful solutions.

The Hellenic Advisory Committee meeting concluded with actionable insights and strategic plans aimed at driving transformative change within the industry.

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On 15^th of August the Panama Canal marked 111 years of operations, renewing its commitment to a sustainable future through a water strategy focused on public well-being and an operational vision that enhances the country’s logistical competitiveness.

Since the waterway’s inauguration in 1914, with the historic transit of the steamship Ancón, which, for the first time, connected the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, the canal has been a driver of Panama’s economic and social development while also a transformer of global maritime trade.

This impact has grown over the past 25 years under Panamanian administration, during which the interoceanic waterway has contributed B/. 28.266 billion in direct payments to the National Treasury, in addition to B/. 15 billion investments in capital projects, operational maintenance, and watershed management.

“In 25 years under Panamanian administration, the canal has doubled its capacity, expanded its locks, and strengthened its security. It has grown from being a strategic passage to a model of efficiency, transparency, and technical commitment. Every dollar generated is reinvested to ensure this artery continues to beat in service to the world while any surplus is contributed towards Panama’s social development,” stated Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales.

Environmental Commitment and Sustainability

The Panama Canal maintains a robust sustainability strategy with a strong focus on decarbonization and climate change adaptation. In line with the International Maritime Organization’s target, it has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Key actions include specific emission reduction goals and the acquisition of 10 tugboats with hybrid propulsion systems. Today the first two vessels, the Isla Barro Colorado and the Isla Bastimentos, were christened. These vessels significantly reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and lower underwater noise, all of which benefits marine life.

In addition to their environmental benefits, the electric motors represent substantial fuel savings and extend maintenance intervals, further boosting operational efficiency.

Social Impact in the Watershed and Progress on the Río Indio Lake Project

The Panama Canal’s sustainable watershed management has benefited thousands of people through socio-environmental programs such as land titling, reforestation, agribusiness, and environmental education.

Within this framework, the project to create a lake in the Río Indio watershed, currently under development, seeks to deliver benefits to local communities by improving their quality of life while helping conserve their environment. The goal is to ensure water security for more than two million Panamanians who rely on the Panama Canal’s lakes. This resource is vital for more than half of the country’s population and its productive sectors including agriculture, industry, education, health, and commerce.

The project is advancing with an integrated approach, incorporating sustainable development plans for watershed communities and environmental safeguards aligned with international best practices, balancing infrastructure development with ecological preservation and respect for the rights of families affected by the project.

Strategic Projects for the Future

With a vision focused on national and regional development, the Panama Canal is promoting four strategic initiatives: An energy corridor, new port terminals, a logistics corridor, and the reinforcement of the water system. These projects are designed to generate long-term value, foster innovation, and solidify Panama’s position as a key hub for global trade and connectivity.

On its 111th anniversary, the Panama Canal reaffirms its role as a driver of sustainable development, committed to Panama, its people, and world commerce.

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Top Ships Inc. spun off two of its tanker vessels into a new publicly-traded company called Rubico Inc. According to the company, Rubico Inc. begun trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market on August 4, 2025, the first trading day after the date of the distribution, under the ticker “RUBI.”

TOP Ships had previously noted that the company intended to distribute 100% of Rubico’s common shares to its security holders of record as of June 16, 2025. A registration statement on Form 20-F has been filed and declared effective. Rubico’s initial assets will include the M/T Eco Malibu and M/T Eco West Coast, each a modern, high-specification, scrubber-fitted, fuel-efficient 157,000 dwt Suezmax tanker.

TOP Ships operates a fleet of technologically advanced, eco-efficient tanker vessels. With a young fleet, the company ensures operational efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and compliance with evolving regulatory standards. Its vessels are employed on time charters with high-quality counterparties, providing strong revenue visibility and stability.

The experienced TOP Ships management team, led by CEO Evangelos Pistiolis and CFO Alexandros Tsirikos, ACA, boasts decades of experience in all aspects of shipping and tanker operations.

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The tanker “IONIC ARIADNE”, managed by the Greek shipping company IONIC and owned by Dimitris Frank Sarakakis, arrived at Skaramagas Shipyards. The ship’s approach to the shipyard was part of her scheduled drydock and 1st Special Survey, in accordance with international maritime rules and safety standards.

According to the company's statements: " It's a great opportunity to work alongside a shipyard with a long-standing tradition and solid track record in quality workmanship. We look forward to further collaborations in the future”.

Skaramagas Shipyards have performed work on at least 55 ships to date, showing a steady upward trend in the shipbuilding services sector. IONIC, which manages a fleet of 7 tankers and 11 bulk carriers (dry cargo ships), with an average age of 6 years, confirmed that its ships are of high quality and that it aims for further collaborations with Skaramagas, practically supporting the revival of the Greek shipbuilding industry.

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ABS Wavesight™, the ABS-affiliated software-as-a-service (SaaS) company, has been chosen by Navios Maritime Partners L.P. to provide a single integrated platform to support compliance with the FuelEU Maritime Regulation and EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) requirements. 

As of January 1, 2025, companies with ships calling on EU ports must collect and report key fuel-related data in preparation for EU submission deadlines. The ABS Wavesight platform offers a seamless experience that automates data reporting and simplifies the process of submitting data for statutory verification to ABS through a convenient API connection.

“Meeting environmental requirements is key for our clients and we are continuing to make strategic investments in digital solutions that help simplify their operations and processes,” said Staci Satterwhite, CEO of ABS Wavesight. “By combining state-of-the-art capabilities from ABS Wavesight such as operational insights, emissions tracking and environmental monitoring, with a simplified connection to ABS for statutory compliance, clients now have a seamless experience.”

"In Navios we continue our ongoing commitment to operational efficiency, environmental responsibility, and the long-term decarbonization of our fleet,” said Mrs. Chara Papaefthymiou, Technical Director - Projects of Navios Maritime Partners L.P. "With ABS Wavesight’s integrated platform, we now benefit from a unified fully digitalized solution that automates our reporting processes, provides on-demand emissions validation and voyage emissions statements, and enables seamless data transmission to ABS for statutory verification.” 

The FuelEU Maritime Regulation and EU ETS are regulatory measures that aim to decarbonize maritime transport in the EU. EU ETS is a market-based measure which sets tank-to-wake emissions limits along with new CO₂ emissions allowances which are continually reduced on a yearly basis. The Fuel EU Maritime Regulation targets the well-to-wake greenhouse gas intensity of a ship’s energy use, introducing three key requirements which include reducing the GHG intensity of the energy used on board, usage of onshore power supply in the main European ports and incentivizing the uptake of renewable and sustainable fuels.

ABS Wavesight is committed to equipping maritime organizations with the tools and integrations needed to navigate an evolving landscape of environmental regulations, rising operational demands, and the drive toward a greener future.

About ABS Wavesight

ABS Wavesight is the ABS Affiliate maritime software as a service (SaaS) company dedicated to helping shipowners and operators streamline compliance while maintaining competitive, more efficient, and sustainable operations. Our mission is to develop world-class software products that improve vessel performance for the health of our seas and environment. Backed by ABS’s 162-year legacy of maritime innovation and experience, our products are collectively installed on more than 3,500 vessels across the global fleet. Learn more about ABS Wavesight by visiting: www.abswavesight.com

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On the evening of June 25th, UW Group officially launched its 25th anniversary celebrations with a special event dedicated to honoring the relationships, trust, success and growth that have defined its journey over the past quarter-century.

Held at the elegant Sands Beach Club–Resto in Limassol, the Formal Cocktail and Ceremony welcomed an esteemed gathering of guests, including representatives of the Cypriot government, shipowners, strategic partners, media, longstanding clients and the team of UW Group. The occasion served not only as the opening chapter of a three-day celebration, but also as a powerful tribute to the connections that have powered UW Group’s global growth.

Keynote speeches were delivered by: Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis, Deputy Minister of Shipping, Mr. George Mouskas, President of Olympia Ocean Carrier and Vice President of the Cyprus Union of Shipowners, Mr. Andreas Neophytou, Joint Managing Director of Marlow Navigation and President of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Ms. Elena Polychronopoulou, President of Erma Tech Group and President of Hemexpo, Mr. Thrasos Tsangarides, Founder and CEO of UW Group.

The evening was filled with meaningful reflections, warm reunions, and forward-looking optimism. As the first in a series of commemorative events, this Formal Reception beautifully set the tone for a celebration not only of past achievements, but of the enduring partnerships and shared values that will guide UW Group into the future.

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In a major step towards more efficient offshore operations, Samsung Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (SHI) and ABB have signed an agreement to equip a fleet of shuttle tankers with ABB’s Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform. Engineered to optimize fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and enable a flexible integration of energy sources, the technology will be the heart of the integrated power system specified for nine newbuild vessels.

The selection of ABB’s technology was driven by the expectations of prioritized efficiency, reliability and operational flexibility, as well as adherence to strict industry standards. The fleet of new vessels will be deployed under bareboat charter to service Brazil’s offshore sector. The vessels are due for delivery starting in 2027.

For ABB, the contract marks the largest order to date for Onboard DC Grid™ in the shuttle tanker segment, underscoring the growing demand for highly customizable, future-ready power solutions in commercial shipping. The project also highlights the power system platform’s ability to deliver high redundancy and seamless integration for energy distribution in low-voltage installations, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of merchant vessels.

“This is an important contract for ABB and a further step forward for our longstanding collaboration with Samsung Heavy Industries,” said Michael Christensen, Global Segment Responsible for Cargo Vessels, ABB’s

Marine & Ports division. “We would like to thank all stakeholders for selecting Onboard DC Grid™ as the best fit for these advanced DP2 shuttle tankers. We look forward to delivering the solution which enables simple and flexible integration of energy sources, and variable speed control across every motor on the ship to maximize overall efficiency.”

ABB’s comprehensive system integration delivery will also include remote diagnostic support, as well as site support and commissioning for all the nine shuttle tankers. The highly fault-tolerant Onboard DC Grid™ system platform carries the latest DNV Closed Bus-Tie Notation DYNPOS(AUTR-CBT). Its use of high-quality components and an autonomous sub-system design philosophy ensures enhanced safety, extended maintenance intervals, and reductions in both fuel consumption and emissions-related costs.

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable, so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com

ABB’s Process Automation business automates, electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy, water and materials, to producing goods and transporting them to market. With its ~20,000 employees, leading technology and service expertise, ABB Process Automation helps process, hybrid and maritime industries outrun – leaner and cleaner.

Foto - Shuttle tanker illustration. Image credit ABB

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PPA S.A. has received a significant distinction for its valuable contribution to the development of the Greek economy, during the awards ceremony of the “Protagonists of the Greek Economy,” organized by Direction Business Network, under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of National Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Development.

Specifically, PPA S.A. was honored in the category “Sector Leader - Port Authorities,” in recognition its leading position in the sector, based on turnover, pre-tax profits and cash reserves, according to the fiscal year 2023. The Company was recognized for its strong financial performance in the industry, highlighting its dynamic presence in the port sector and its decisive role in shaping a modern and competitive port ecosystem.

On the occasion of this important distinction, the CEO of PPA S.A., Mr. Su Xudong, stated: “This recognition is a particular honor for the Company and the entire organization. It reflects our steadfast commitment to a long-term development strategy that strengthens Piraeus’ role as a strategically important gateway to Europe, generating multiplier benefits for the national economy, sustainable growth and local communities.”

The awards ceremony was held on the 14th of July, with this year’s event marking the 10^th consecutive year of the institution’s presence.

About PPA S.A.

Piraeus Port Authority SA is an Athens Stock Exchange listed company engaged in the management and operation of Piraeus port, Greece’s largest port and one of the largest integrated harbours in Europe, providing a complete range of services. Some of the company’s activities involve cruise, coastal (ferry/passenger), container and car terminal services, as well as general cargo, ship repair, logistic and free zone services. The main shareholder of Piraeus Port Authority S.A., with a stake of 67 percent, is COSCO SHIPPING, one of the largest maritime companies in the world.

Over the last decade the company has experienced a remarkable growth in all port activities, which is still underway, largely contributing to the country’s economy, while driven by green development and increased digitalization, alongside a people-first approach and a spirit of giving back to the society.

PPA holds the “ECO PORT&” PERS status, is included in the Athens Stock Exchange ESG index and is one of the “Most Sustainable Companies in Greece 2024”.

Image: The award was received by Mr. Nektarios Demenopoulos, Deputy Manager of the BoD Secretariat, Public Relations & Investor Relations Dpt.

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Glyfada Greek Maritime Golf Event returns dynamically, continuing its successful progress as a top tournament that brings together the maritime industry and the world of golf. This year’s event will take place on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the historic Glyfada Golf Course “K. Karamanlis”, offering a unique experience of sport, corporate networking, and social engagement within a stunning natural landscape.

The tournament has established itself as a premier annual institution for the Greek and international maritime community, gathering top executives, industry professionals, golf enthusiasts, and supporters of the sport. The Glyfada Golf Course, built to international standards, is set in lush greenery with gentle hills, Mediterranean vegetation, and scenic views, making it a landmark of athleticism, culture, and leisure.

The 18-hole, par-72 course combines technical challenge with aesthetic excellence, making it ideal for both seasoned golfers and newcomers. The course’s distinctive terrain and natural surroundings offer a balanced and enjoyable playing experience in every round.

Tournament Schedule

On Friday, September 5, 2025, participants will start the day with registration. The main event will feature a Scramble format tournament, delivering an exciting golf experience on one of Greece’s most iconic courses. The schedule will also include a Golf Clinic for non-golfers, giving attendees the opportunity to learn or improve their technique in the thrilling Olympic sport of golf.

The day will conclude with the awards ceremony, held in the elegant outdoor space of Colonial, the all-day restaurant of the Papatheoharis Group at Golf Prive Glyfada, offering breathtaking views of the course.

Tournament Format

The event will be played in a Scramble 4-ball, 2 better ball format. Players select the best driver and then each completes the hole with their own ball. Teams consist of four players, and the two best individual scores on each hole count toward the team score. Each player’s Playing Handicap will be calculated at ¾, in line with international golf rules. The Scramble format ensures a dynamic and enjoyable pace of play, ideal for both experienced golfers and beginners. The event doesn’t require professional playing but promotes teamwork, strategy, and the joy of the game.

Recognized Greek PGA golfer and event organizer, Mr. Thanos Karantzias stated: “Glyfada Greek Maritime Golf Event is back for another exciting year, reinforcing its long-standing role as a unique meeting point between the maritime sector and the golf world. This year’s event, hosted at one of the most historic and beautiful golf destinations in Greece, aims to deliver a high-quality experience that blends sport, corporate engagement, and human connection in a truly unique setting. We are proud to carry this tradition forward and committed to enhancing it each year.”

Platinum Sponsor: IRI / The Marshall Islands Registry

Gold Sponsor: MOTODYNAMICS Group

Silver Sponsor: Marine Tours

Supporter: Golden Stone Maritime Ventures SA

Glyfada Greek Maritime Golf Event is organized by Birdie Events and is an initiative of Greek PGA professional Thanos Karantzias. Golf Production is managed by ActiveMedia Group, awarded as Sports Marketing Agency of the Year. The tournament is exclusively aimed at distinguished executives of the Greek maritime industry.

Photo caption: @ Glyfada Greek Maritime Golf Event

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Mintra, a global leader in digital learning and workforce management solutions for the maritime and energy sectors, has entered a strategic alignment agreement with SQLearn, a leading Greek provider of online maritime training solutions.

Through this partnership, SQLearn will play a key role in expanding Mintra’s presence in the Greek market, promoting Mintra’s portfolio. At the same time, Mintra will also promote SQLearn’s e-learning products internationally, broadening the reach of SQLearn’s innovative maritime training technologies across global shipping markets.

Bringing together these two market leaders with a shared commitment, will greatly accelerate the digital transformation of the maritime industry through high-impact training and technology.              

“This collaboration marks an exciting milestone in SQLearn’s growth strategy” said Spyros Goumas, CEO of SQLearn. By aligning with Mintra, we can combine our innovative Greek-made content with Mintra’s international presence, which creates a win-win for ship owners and seafarers alike.”

Mr. Kevin Short, CEO of Mintra, commented: “We are proud to embark on this strategic collaboration with SQLearn. We chose SQLearn as our partner because we believe they will help us promote our products in the Greek market, opening new avenues through their strong reputation and established commercial network. The strategic alliance between Mintra and SQLearn shows our intention to significantly invest in solutions aiming to fulfill the digital transformation needs of the Greek maritime industry.” 

About Mintra: Mintra is a leading provider of digital learning and human capital management systems for safety-critical industries worldwide. Mintra develops and deploys software solutions that enable its clients to develop and deploy their people, readily demonstrate compliance and maximise operational efficiency.   

Originating in Oslo in 1997, Mintra’s strategic growth has seen the incorporation of OnSoft Computer Systems (OCS) in 2016, Atlas Knowledge in 2018, Safebridge in 2021, Seably in 2023 and Moxie Media in 2025. Mintra’s skilled team exceeds 200 specialists in consulting, design, development, and support, operates from their headquarters in Bergen, with offices spanning Oslo, Stavanger, Aberdeen, Gothenburg, Limassol and New Orleans. This geographic distribution ideally positions Mintra to address the training, HR, payroll, and workforce management requirements of the maritime and energy sectors on a global scale. 

Mintra offers an extensive portfolio of training courses tailored to the maritime and energy sectors, encompassing over 2,600 titles and, as a multi-approved training provider, issues certificates for the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA), OPITO, DNV, ECITB, IOSH and The Nautical Institute. Mintra’s Trainingportal learning and competency management system plays a vital role in supporting 2.4 million workers and 4,000 companies, with a course completed every 27 seconds. For more than four decades, OCS HR, Mintra's crew management system, has streamlined the planning and administration of seafarers for over 1,800 vessels worldwide. 

About SQLearn: SQLearn, founded in 2006 and based in Piraeus, stands as the most prominent Greek company for online maritime training. It specialises in providing integrated solutions for the shipping industry, encompassing consulting, technical support, installation, and configuration of an online training system and offering certified online courses that cover a wide array of topics, from safety, health and hygiene, and security to soft skills, vetting inspections, and more. Supporting over 1,000 vessels, 50,000 seafarers, and 150 shipping companies globally, SQLearn’s training solutions emphasize safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. Certified by ABS and recognized by the Liberia, Cyprus, and Panama Maritime Authorities, SQLearn also adheres to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2013 standards. SQLearn is an approved RightShip Zero Harm Innovation Partner and a Green Award Incentive Provider and proud members of prestigious Maritime Organizations, including Intertanko, Intercargo, WIMA, HELMEPA, HEMEXPO and AMMITEC.

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