Massachusetts Maritime Academy, a top-ranked public university with undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs focusing on science, engineering, technology, math, and business that blend academics and experiential learning, dedicated "Miltiadis Marinakis Hall" on October 14th. The STEM center is the Academy’s first net-zero energy-ready building and also the first campus facility connected to MMA’s new geothermal heat loop.

As a hub for advanced STEM education, "Miltiadis Marinakis Hall" represents a significant investment in innovation, sustainability, and hands-on learning.

“Marinakis Hall was designed to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the rapidly evolving maritime industry,” said Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, USMS, president of Massachusetts Maritime Academy. “As the first building connected to our new geothermal heat loop, Marinakis Hall demonstrates that technological advancement and environmental responsibility can be achieved and progress in tandem.

“Marinakis Hall is a tribute to the memory of Miltiadis Marinakis, father of Evangelos. Miltiadis’ passion for shipping and his enduring drive to pioneer within industry serve as a constant reminder of the value of maritime education. We are incredibly grateful for Evangelos Marinakis’ generosity and support,” added Admiral McDonald.

Purpose-built to advance experiential learning in engineering, marine technology, and related disciplines, Marinakis Hall contains classrooms and specialized instructional spaces, including a fabrication lab, makerspace, operations and controls lab, electronics lab, and dedicated biology, physics, and chemistry laboratories.
The new STEM center was dedicated during the October 14th ceremony by Rear Admiral McDonald and Evangelos Marinakis, founder and chairman of Capital Maritime & Trading Corp.  Capital Maritime and its affiliated companies operate a total fleet of 200 ships with an overall tonnage of approximately 18 million tonnes (dwt), across the tanker, container, LNG, LPG/Ammonia, LCO2, offshore and dry bulk segments.
Evangelos Marinakis, the recipient of an honorary degree from the Academy in 2024, is one of the leading shipowners in the maritime industry, an international businessman, investor, and philanthropist.
“Our sponsorship for the creation of the STEM Center at MMA aims at addressing a vital need: to transform the shipping industry. And this transformation is achieved through higher education, the advancement of innovation, and scientific and technological excellence. It is a sponsorship made at MMA, but it concerns global shipping,” said Marinakis. “This STEM center was built to meet those challenges head-on. Equipped with top-tier scientific facilities, Miltiadis Marinakis Hall will give the students of this Academy the advanced education they need to lead the global industry into tomorrow.”

Marinakis Hall was co-commissioned by the Academy and the Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Construction (DCAMM). The building’s construction was a collaborative effort between BOND Building Construction, project architect Ellenzweig, BR + A Consulting Engineers and numerous partners.

About Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA): MMA is a fully accredited, four-year, co-educational state university offering Bachelor and Master of Science degrees that are highly regarded in the worldwide maritime industry and beyond. For more than 100 years, MMA has prepared women and men for exciting and rewarding careers on land and sea. As the nation's finest co-ed maritime college, MMA challenges students to succeed by balancing a unique regimented lifestyle with a typical four-year college environment. Located on Cape Cod, at the mouth of the scenic Cape Cod Canal, Massachusetts Maritime Academy is the ideal college to pursue the love for the ocean, concern for the environment, interest in math and science, and a thirst for adventure.

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Driving Inclusive Growth, Decarbonization, and Strategic Regional Collaboration

By Theano Kalapotharakou and Stefanos Papandreou Co-Publishers, ELNAVI Magazine

The global maritime community gathered in the heart of Southeast Asia for the landmark WISTA International AGM & Conference 2026, held at the Grand Ballroom Foyer of the InterContinental Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Representing ELNAVI Magazine, co-publishers Theano Kalapotharakou (also a member of WISTA Hellas) and Stefanos Papandreou visited Kuala Lumpur to deliver comprehensive coverage of this pivotal annual event.

Under the overarching spirit of unity and forward-looking leadership, the conference witnessed a powerful alignment of regional chapters. Reshma Yousuf (President of WISTA Malaysia and CEO of CLLB Sdn Bhd), Yukie Teo (President of WISTA Singapore and General Manager Headway International Pte. Ltd), and Isabel Tse (President of WISTA Hong Kong SAR and Managing Director of W V Ocean Consultancy Limited) joined forces to transcend geographical boundaries and organised a successful conference on how the maritime sector can collectively address modern commercial, regulatory, and technological challenges.

Ministerial Keynote Address

Delivering the Ministerial Keynote Address, Yang Berhormat Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia, emphasized the critical importance of the maritime industry to Malaysia's national economy, highlighting its role in connecting people and markets. He outlined Malaysia’s strategic vision to build an integrated, competitive, efficient, and secure maritime and logistics system through digital adoption, artificial intelligence, and data analytics in vessel operations.

Minister Loke reiterated Malaysia’s firm commitment to International Maritime Organization (IMO) sustainability targets, emphasizing the creation of green shipping corridors and fostering innovation. He notably underscored that by combining strengths across regional centers—such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia—the region can successfully compete on a global scale alongside China.

IMO Secretary-General Welcome Address

Attendees received a warm video message from Arsenio Antonio Domínguez Velasco, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Secretary-General Domínguez reaffirmed the IMO’s strong backing for gender equality, diversity, and meaningful inclusion across the global maritime community. He expressed his sincere gratitude to Elpi Petraki for her passionate and impactful presidency, commending her measured progress, dedication, and overall contribution to advancing WISTA's mission.

In her opening address, outgoing WISTA International President Elpi Petraki (Operations, Chartering & Business Development Manager at ENEA Management Inc.) addressed the complex operational landscape facing shipping today, including geopolitical volatility and heightened cybersecurity risks. She highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue, continuous reach, and strategic partnerships, reminding delegates that leadership opportunities ahead should not be constrained by gender or nationality.

A major milestone of the conference was the official leadership transition following the conclusion of Mrs. Petraki’s distinguished term. It was announced that she is succeeded as President of WISTA International by Celine Mortimer, CEO of Bogarde Martin (Belgium).

Bridging Borders, Driving Change

Moderated by Isabel Tse (President of WISTA Hong Kong SAR; Managing Director, W V Ocean Consultancy Limited), the opening panel examined how Asian governments, port authorities, and corporate leaders are collaborating to boost competitiveness and establish future-ready infrastructure.

The panel brought together key industry leaders, including Elpi Petraki – President, WISTA International; Operations, Chartering & Business Development Manager, ENEA Management Inc., Capt. Rajalingam Subramaniam – Chief Executive Officer, Fleet Management Limited (The Caravel Group), Dato' Capt. K. Subramaniam – General Manager, Port Klang Authority, Sakura Kuma – President, WISTA Japan; Managing Director, MOL (Asia Oceania) Pte. Ltd.

Building an Inclusive and Future

Focusing on the industry's human capital, this session explored crewing strategies, leadership pipelines, skills development, and how diversity operates as a tangible competitive advantage.

The panel was moderated by Michelle Yong – Partner, Stephenson Harwood (Singapore) Alliance and Sabrina Chao – Honorary President, WISTA Hong Kong; Chairman, SeaKapital and featured insights from panelists Ruzila Idin – Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO), MISC Berhad, Mariana Noceti – Programme Officer, Women in Maritime, International Maritime Organization (IMO), Helio Vicente – Director (Employment Affairs), International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).

Creating Lasting Impact Beyond Shipping

In an inspiring guest session, Michelle de la Harpe (RTCA, Charter President, Meraki Daat Initiative) presented the work of the Meraki Daat Initiative. She detailed efforts in marine ecosystem restoration, plastic recovery, circular economy practices, and the Blue Economy in action across Sabah, highlighting how sustainable coastal livelihoods and women’s entrepreneurship directly empower coastal communities.

Connecting Ships, Ports and Global Trade

This session, moderated by Caterina Cerrini – Board Member, WISTA Italy; Project and Development Manager, Italian Shipping Academy, evaluated smart ports, shipbuilding innovation, alternative fuels, AI-driven digitalization, decarbonization pathways, and supply chain resilience across global trade corridors and featured insights from panelists Dr. Siti Noraishah – General Manager, Johor Port Authority, Roxana Ortega – President, WISTA Panama; Senior Project Manager, Maritime & Logistics Consulting Group, S.A., Ana Paula Costa – President, WISTA Brazil; Senior Operations Manager, DS NORDEN A/S, Manasi Bhopale – Senior Consultant – Sustainability, Lloyd’s Register Advisory.

Outlook for Maritime Growth and Development

A dedicated fireside discussion analyzed geopolitical dynamics, trade resilience, and global shipping growth trends and moderated by Cassandra Simpson – Vice-President, WISTA Hong Kong SAR China; General Manager, Corporate Communications, The Caravel Group with speaker Thomas A. Kazakos – Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).

Building a Resilient Maritime Economy Through Global Partnerships

Addressing cross-border policy, maritime finance, P&I insurance, ESG investments, and legal frameworks, this panel underscored that cross-sectoral collaboration is essential to navigating global trade choke points and climate challenges.

Moderated by former INTERTANKO Managing Director Katharina Stanzel, the panel brought together key industry leaders, including Chris Hall, Managing Director – Hong Kong at the American P&I Club; Elizabeth Sloane, Partner at HFW; and Marina Ledakis, Market Reporter – EMEA Shipping & Freight, S&P Global Commodity Insights, Elisa Woodward – Chief Information Officer (CIO), Grand Banks Marine Group.

Women at Sea – Preparing for the Future of Maritime Work

The conference concluded with a celebration of female seafarers, providing firsthand insights into generational changes at sea, practical onboard experiences, and necessary leadership mindsets for modern maritime operations.

Moderated by Yukie Teo – President, WISTA Singapore; General Manager, Headway International Pte. Ltd the panel brought together key industry leaders, including: Capt. Emanuel Janta Anak Mujah – Harbour Pilot, Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP), Capt. Lydia Argyropoulou – Treasurer, WISTA Hellas; Port Captain – Dry Cargo Operator, Neda Maritime Agency Co., Ltd. Cynthia Everduin – Secretary & Board Member, WISTA The Netherlands; Operational Director, De Bock Maritiem B.V.

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Moore Maritime Index (“MMI”), a database containing operating costs and revenues from more than 1,500 vessels, has been updated and is available with the 2025 data.

The data comes from audited financial statements of shipowning companies and, therefore, the results produced by the Index reflect the “real world” financial performance of the shipping industry.

The main takeaways for 2025 are:

- Dry Bulk Carriers: The results for 2025 indicate increasing pressure on operating margins, as daily TCE rates declined across all categories of bulk carriers, with decreases ranging from approximately 5% to 12%, while total operating expenses increased. A consistent increase was observed in crew wages, administrative expenses and stores expenses across all vessel categories. In particular, stores expenses increased between 4% and 19%, while administrative expenses rose between 4% and 14%. On the contrary, insurance expenses declined across all categories, recording decreases between 6% and 16%.

- Tankers: The results for 2025 indicate upward pressure on operating expenses, particularly for larger vessels. Total operating expenses increased for Aframax, Suezmax and VLCC vessels, by approximately 5% to 8%. Stores expenses increased across all tanker categories, with increases reaching approximately 21% for Suezmax vessels.

Repairs and maintenance expenses also increased across five of the six tanker categories, with Suezmax vessels recording the highest increase of approximately 29%. In terms of revenue, VLCC vessels recorded a notable increase of approximately 21% in daily TCE rates, while Aframax vessels registered an increase of approximately 4%.

To access the Moore Maritime Index, please visit https://moore-index.com/

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The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) joined members of the Bahamas Shipowners Association (BSA) and representatives from across the maritime industry in Genoa on 30 September for the BSA Annual General Meeting and Maritime Industry Forum 2026, held under the theme “Building Resilience in a Changing Maritime Landscape.”

The event provided an important opportunity for direct engagement between the BMA, shipowners and other industry stakeholders on regulatory, operational and strategic matters affecting the international fleet.

The BMA delegation was led by Board Chairman Jacqueline M. Simmons, accompanied by Deputy Chairman Peter John Goulandris; Managing Director & CEO Capt. Dwain Hutchinson; Stephen Keenan, Senior Deputy Director (Inspections & Surveys); and Capt. Ghulam Hussain, Deputy Director (Maritime Affairs). The team provided an update on the Authority, including the Bahamas fleet, legislative developments, key achievements and the BMA’s strategic direction for growth, with continued emphasis on industry engagement, digitalisation and quality customer service.

The BMA also took the opportunity to recognise outgoing BSA Chairman Capt. Domenico Rognoni and Manager Anders Brodjie, expressing its appreciation for their contributions to the Association and their support of the longstanding relationship between the BSA and the BMA. A warm welcome and commitment to collaboration was extended to Simon Church as the incoming BSA Manager.

The importance of the BMA’s active engagement at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO) was also highlighted, alongside its continued collaboration with shipowners to support practical and effective regulation. This engagement is increasingly important as the maritime industry seeks greater clarity and certainty while shipowners and the seafarers serving on their ships navigate the deadly risk of wars, while resolving  pathways towards decarbonisation and the transition to cleaner shipping.

During the Maritime Industry Forum, a further update was provided on Port State Control (PSC), including The Bahamas Flag’s QUALSHIP 21 status, global PSC performance, enhanced monitoring and the use of inspection intelligence to provide targeted guidance to owners and managers. Discussions also considered global trends that may affect PSC outcomes, crew training and the importance of continued engagement with PSC regimes internationally.

The BMA values its longstanding relationship with the BSA and the practical insight its members bring to the work of the Authority. Continued dialogue with key industry stakeholders, including shipowners and managers, helps the BMA better understand emerging challenges, strengthen its services and ensure that the Bahamas Flag continues to combine high regulatory standards with practical, responsive and customer-focused support.

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Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, Founder and President of Capital Link, Inc., was honored with the AHEPA Delphi Award during the 10th Annual Delphi Gala, “A Midnight in Athens,” hosted by AHEPA Delphi Chapter #25 on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Tribeca 360 in New York City.

AHEPA Delphi Chapter #25 honored Mr. Bornozis in recognition of his role as a bridge-builder between Greece, the global shipping industry and the international investment community, and as a pioneer in connecting the Greek business and shipping communities with international capital markets.

The evening was a great success, bringing together members and friends of the chapter, as well as distinguished guests from the Greek-American, shipping and business communities. This year’s Gala also marked the 10th anniversary of the Delphi Gala, celebrating ten years of growing the Delphi Network and of making a positive impact on the Manhattan community. The evening began with a rooftop cocktail hour overlooking Manhattan, followed by dinner, the honoree program and dancing to music by George V. Andreakos, International Sounds.

MR. NICOLAS BORNOZIS WAS INTRODUCED BY: Mr. Markos K. Marinakis, President and CEO – Marinakis Chartering Inc. and Dr. Nikolas P. Tsakos, Founder & CEO – TEN Ltd. (NYSE: TEN); Chairman – INTERTANKO (2014-2018).

A PIONEER IN CONNECTING GREECE WITH THE GLOBAL CAPITAL MARKETS 

In 1994, Mr. Bornozis organized the first U.S. roadshow for the Athens Stock Exchange, and a year later he founded Capital Link. He also founded the Capital Link Invest in Greece Forum in New York, now in its 28th year. A graduate of Athens College, the University of Athens Law School and Harvard Business School, Mr. Bornozis previously served as President and CEO of CCF International Finance Corp. He received the 2023 Executive of the Year award from the Hellenic-American Bankers Association, and Capital Link served as a Grand Marshal of the 2026 Greek Independence Day Parade in New York.

For 30 years, Capital Link has been dedicated to bridging markets, fostering meaningful dialogue, and bringing people and ideas closer together. Through its annual forums in 11 leading financial and business centers – New York, London, Oslo, Hamburg, Athens, Limassol, Dubai, Shanghai, Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong – Capital Link has built strong relationships across global markets, connecting investors, companies, institutions and business

leaders, and creating a leading platform for dialogue between the shipping industry, the financial and investment community and governments.

The work of Mr. Bornozis and Capital Link in raising the profile of Greece and Greek shipping internationally and in fostering closer relations between the United States and Greece has been recognized with several distinctions, including:

• the AHI Hellenic Heritage National Public Service Award, presented to Mr. Bornozis by the American Hellenic Institute in 2016;
• the Hellenic Heritage Public Service Award, presented by AHI to Ms. Olga Bornozi, Managing Director of Capital Link, in 2026;
• the 1st Propeller Club of Piraeus Members Award in 2016 and the Propeller Club’s 2026 Award of Recognition;
• the Piraeus International Centre Award at the Lloyd’s List Greek Shipping Awards 2011; and
• the Executive of the Year Award (2023) from the Hellenic-American Bankers Association, presented to Mr. Bornozis by the Hellenic-American Bankers Association in 2023; and • Capital Link’s selection as a Grand Marshal of the 2026 Greek Independence Day Parade in New York.

Accepting the award, Mr. Nicolas Bornozis thanked AHEPA Delphi Chapter #25 and the two introducers and stated: “Receiving the AHEPA Delphi Award is especially meaningful to me as the Delphi Gala celebrates its 10th anniversary. This award recognizes a role I have always cherished: that of building bridges. Bridges between Greece and the United States, between the shipping industry and the capital markets, and between companies and the international investment community.”

Reflecting on Capital Link’s journey, Mr. Bornozis said: “A year after the first U.S. roadshow for the Athens Stock Exchange, we founded Capital Link with a simple conviction, that Greece, and especially Greek shipping, deserved a place on the global investment map, and that investors deserved the opportunity to understand them better. Over the past 30 years, that conviction has grown into 18 annual forums in 11 countries.” Mr. Bornozis also invited the members and friends of AHEPA in New York to join the Capital Link Invest in Greece Forum, held annually in New York for the past 28 years: “For 28 years, it has brought together government leaders, business executives and the U.S. investment community to present Greece’s progress and its investment opportunities. I would like to warmly invite all of you, the members and friends of AHEPA in New York, to join us.” The 28th Annual Capital Link Invest in Greece Forum, “Greece: From Recovery to Leadership – A New Era of Investment, Innovation and Global Connectivity,” will take place on Monday, December 7, 2026, at the Metropolitan Club in New York. Referring to the years of the Greek crisis, he noted: “It was precisely then that it became most important to speak clearly and credibly about the country’s resilience and potential. We believed in Greece, and we never stopped working to help others believe in it too.” Mr. Bornozis dedicated the honor to the Capital Link team: “Capital Link is, above all, its people. I want to thank our exceptional team in New York and Athens, whose dedication, professionalism and creativity are behind every forum and every relationship we have built.” He also thanked his sister, Ms. Olga Bornozi, Managing Director of Capital Link, “who has been my partner every step of the way,” as well as the many companies, speakers, sponsors and friends who have supported the company’s vision for three decades.
He concluded: “I accept this award with gratitude, and with a strong sense of responsibility to keep building bridges and to keep promoting Greece and Greek shipping around the world.”

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First woman and first Greek to lead the Institute in its 115-year history

Natalia Margioli FICS, Founder and Managing Director of the Hellenic Management Centre (HMC), has been elected President of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), marking a significant milestone in the Institute’s 115-year history.

Her election took place on 29 October 2026, during the ICS Controlling Council meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, making her the first woman and the first Greek to hold the Presidency of the internationally recognised professional body for the commercial shipping industry.

Having served as Vice President of the Institute since 2024, Natalia succeeds Punit Oza FICS, who completed his two-year term as President.

With more than 25 years of experience in maritime education and professional development, Natalia has dedicated much of her career to strengthening maritime education and promoting professional excellence within the shipping industry.

As Founder and Managing Director of the Hellenic Management Centre since 1999, she has played a leading role in the development of maritime education in Greece, supporting the professional advancement of thousands of shipping professionals.

Her involvement with the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers spans more than two decades. Through her leadership and commitment, the ICS Greek Branch has grown into one of the Institute’s most active and successful international branches, developing a strong community of maritime professionals and establishing close links with the Greek shipping industry.

Commenting on her election, Natalia Margioli FICS stated: “It is a great honour and privilege to take on the Presidency of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, an institution that has been such an important part of my personal and professional journey for more than two decades.

I would like to sincerely thank Punit for his leadership and valuable contribution to the Institute over the past two years, and for the strong foundations on which we can continue to build.

Becoming the first woman and the first Greek President in the Institute’s 115-year history is a milestone I am very proud of.

Looking ahead, my priority is to build on our excellence in maritime education, strengthen the value of ICS membership, bring our international Branches closer together and further develop our connections with the shipping industry.

Above all, I believe in bringing people together, and I look forward to working with our members, Branches and colleagues around the world to make our Institute even stronger.”

The outgoing President, Punit Oza FICS, welcomed Natalia’s election, acknowledging her longstanding involvement and contribution to the Institute. He also highlighted the progress achieved during his Presidency, particularly in strengthening the Institute’s international visibility and establishing a clear strategic direction for the coming years.

Her appointment also reflects the strong contribution of the Greek maritime community to the Institute and its international network, while opening a new chapter focused on strengthening the ICS’s global presence, supporting its members and developing closer connections with the shipping industry.

About the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS)

Founded in 1911 and granted a Royal Charter in 1920, the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers is the internationally recognised professional body for the commercial shipping industry, representing shipbrokers, ship managers, agents and shipping professionals worldwide.

With 27 branches and more than 4,000 Members and Fellows internationally, the Institute is committed to advancing maritime education, professional qualifications and the highest standards of knowledge, integrity and professionalism across the shipping industry.

About the Hellenic Management Centre (HMC)

Founded in 1999 by Natalia Margioli, the Hellenic Management Centre (HMC) is a leading professional education and training organisation based in Piraeus, Greece, specialising in maritime education, management and leadership development.

As the official educational provider of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers in Greece, HMC has played a key role in the development and growth of the ICS Greek Branch, promoting internationally recognised maritime qualifications and supporting the professional development of shipping professionals.

Over the past years, HMC has trained thousands of professionals through specialised maritime programmes, professional qualifications, executive seminars and tailor-made corporate training initiatives, working closely with shipping companies and industry experts.

Through its continued commitment to education, professional excellence and industry collaboration, HMC remains dedicated to developing the next generation of maritime professionals and strengthening the connection between education and the evolving needs of the shipping industry.

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The President of the Consular Corps in Greece, *H.E. Christos Vardikos (Commonwealth of Dominica) *, hosted a working lunch at the *Athens Club* with *H.E. Mr. Tasos Chatzivassiliou, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for European Affairs*, as guest speaker.

The event brought together Heads of Consular Missions accredited in Greece representing countries without an established Embassy therein, offering a valuable opportunity for dialogue on key foreign policy issues.
During the lunch, Minister Chatzivassiliou presented the perspectives and priorities of the Greek Presidency of the Council of the European Union. He outlined the main objectives of the Presidency, its expected contributions to the European agenda, and the areas of cooperation with the Consular Corps.

Speaking at the event, President Vardikos welcomed the Minister and thanked him for the insightful presentation. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Consular Corps to support and strengthen Greece’s role within the European Union and expressed the Corps’ readiness to contribute to the success of the Greek Presidency.

The working lunch took place in a constructive and cordial atmosphere, underlining the close cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consular Corps.

*Countries represented: * Kenya, Botswana, Ecuador, Honduras, New Zealand, Malaysia, Commonwealth of Dominica, Namibia.

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A new chapter in Safe Bulkers Inc decarbonization journey has begun with the delivery of its first dual-fuel methanol-powered Kamsarmax newbuild from Tsuneishi Shipbuilding (Zhoushan) Ltd.
As the first dual-fuel bulker to enter the Cyprus Registry, the vessel was aptly named KYPROS ISLAND by Her Excellency Mrs. Marina Hadjimanolis, Deputy Minister of Shipping of the Republic of Cyprus.
The 81,200 DWT Methanol DualFuel Kamsarmax Bulk Carrier is flying the Cyprus flag.
This milestone marks a significant step forward in Safe Bulkers’ commitment to advancing more sustainable shipping and supporting the maritime industry’s transition towards a lower-carbon future.
Safe Bulkers, Inc. continues to advance its fleet renewal program through the acquisition of next generation EEDI Phase 3 vessels and the integration of technologies that enhance both operational and energy efficiency. A second methanol dual fuel ready Kamsarmax newbuilding is expected to join the fleet in January 2027.

The Company’s commitment to methanol capable vessels reinforces its broader longterm fleet renewal and decarbonization strategy. Through these investments, Safe Bulkers positions its fleet to remain environmentally responsible and aligned with future IMO greenhouse gas reduction requirements, while maintaining commercial competitiveness and operational efficiency in the global shipping market.

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The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) welcomes Dr. Nikolas P. Tsakos, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN), as a keynote presenter at its Annual Conference and Awards Program on October 29, 2026, in New York City. This year’s theme, “Balancing Commerce & Conservation,” reflects the ongoing conversation across the maritime industry about how to meet commercial demands while protecting the marine environment. Mr. Tsakos will bring his perspective on the environmental and geopolitical issues facing the industry today. Dr. Tsakos has also served as Founding Member and President of HELMEPA, the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association.
Dr. Tsakos will address pressing geopolitical developments and environmental issues facing the maritime sector. As international shipping responds to changing trade patterns, energy security concerns, and growing expectations for environmental responsibility, his perspective draws on decades of experience leading a global energy transportation company and participating in international maritime organizations.
Mr. Tsakos has led Tsakos Energy Navigation since founding the company in 1993. Based in Greece, TEN has grown into an international energy shipping company with a diversified fleet of crude oil and petroleum product tankers, liquefied natural gas carriers, and specialized shuttle tankers. The company emphasizes fleet renewal, vessel safety, and environmental management, with policies designed to prevent pollution and meet evolving international maritime requirements.

With experience in ship management dating back to 1981, Tsakos has played an active role in maritime leadership throughout his career. He previously served as Chairman of INTERTANKO, the international association representing independent tanker owners, and he also serves in leadership and advisory roles across several major shipping and classification organizations, including the Union of Greek Shipowners, the UK P&I Club, and the American Bureau of Shipping. His experience across commercial shipping maritime safety, and environmental protection brings a broad industry perspective to the issues facing the sector today.
The Tsakos family has also supported maritime education and community development through the Maria Tsakos Foundation, which promotes education and other initiatives, including support for students pursuing higher education. These efforts reflect the broader role of the maritime industry in developing the next generation of professionals and strengthening the communities connected to shipping.
The conference program will feature additional keynote presentations, panel discussions, and opportunities for industry professionals to exchange perspectives on the future of maritime. Discussions will explore operational challenges, environmental protection, emerging technologies, regulatory developments, workforce sustainability, and industry leadership. The program will conclude with NAMEPA’s annual awards dinner, recognizing individuals and organizations making meaningful contributions to marine environmental protection.

NAMEPA’s Annual Conference and Awards Program will take place on October 29, 2026, in New York City.  
About NAMEPA: The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) is a maritime industry-led organization preserving the marine environment by promoting resilient maritime industry best practices and educating seafarers, students and the public about the need and strategies for protecting global ocean, lake and river resources. For more information www.namepa.net

Featured Image: Dr. Nikolas Tsakos, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN)

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The ABS Bulk Carriers Forum, hosted on October 13, 2026, brought together prominent shipowners, maritime leaders, and technical experts to discuss critical market trends, technical developments, and regulatory shifts in the dry bulk sector. Elias Kariambas, Vice President of Business Development Southern Europe at ABS, opened the proceedings.  

Market Intelligence and Regional Insights

The forum featured detailed presentations on global dry bulk dynamics and Asian shipbuilding hubs. Vasileios Gkikas, Dry Bulk Business Director at ABS, presented an overview of the sector, followed by Han Xiao, Business Development Manager at ABS, who detailed Chinese shipbuilding developments. Jiang Binbin, Deputy Director of Europe at CSSC Group, shared valuable insights into CSSC's capacity and technological advances. Furthermore, Stamatis Fradelos, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs at ABS, delivered a regulatory update, while Chara Georgousi, Head of Valuations at Allied Shipbroking, analyzed current market valuations and chartering trends.  

INTERCARGO as the Pillar of Dry Bulk

 
In a compelling keynote presentation, John Xylas, Chairman of INTERCARGO, underscored that dry bulk shipping forms the true pillar of seaborne trade, accounting for 45% of global seaborne trade and 40% of the global fleet. The sector encompasses over 1 billion DWT across 14,000 operating vessels, carrying 1.7 billion tonnes of cargo efficiently and reliably.  

Highlighting INTERCARGO’s growth, Mr. Xylas noted that the association has increased its membership by 50% over the last 5 years. He emphasized INTERCARGO’s essential advisory role, representing the views and interests of dry bulk shipowners by providing practical advice and business intelligence. Through its specialized committees and working groups (Executive, Technical, etc.), INTERCARGO supports members on design, cargoes, operations, security, quality/vetting, decarbonization, energy efficiency, regulations, and environmental matters. He also highlighted evolving operational realities, including shifting cargo flows to new regions, larger ships entering port access constraints, and ship-to-ship (STS) operations.  
 
Industry Perspectives - Panel Discussion

During the panel discussion, "The Hereafter," moderated by Vasileios Gkikas, panellists Basil Sakellis (CEO, Alassia Newships Management), Manolis Vergetis (Regional Representative, INTERCARGO), Angelica Kemene (Head of Group Advisory & Climate Strategy, Optima Shipping Services), and Martin Rowe (Vice President Commercial, Anglo-Eastern) addressed pressing operational and strategic challenges.
 Geopolitical volatility, port facilities, and raising safety awareness remain key concerns. Speakers also noted that the EU does not necessarily need to be at the forefront of every regulatory initiative.  Greece maintains an extremely excellent profile in shipping. The new generation is increasing its technocratic expertise, making skilled manpower on vessels essential alongside adopting innovative technologies and training methods.  

Panelists discussed the unique standards of DryBMS and its regional regulatory interactions. On decarbonization, speakers advised caution against committing prematurely to alternative fuels, advocating instead to "preserve optionality". The consensus emphasized ordering vessels that remain profitable even under worst-case scenarios through thorough analysis, while actively investing in energy-saving devices.

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