The Britannia Loss Prevention team, in collaboration with the Greek Office Claims team, recently hosted an interactive workshop at the Yacht Club of Greece.
Focused on the complexities of crew claims, the seminar brought together industry professionals to dissect real-world incidents and establish best practices for risk mitigation.
The sessions were led by a joint team of Loss Prevention and Claims specialists, Capt. Muhammad Khan (Loss Prevention Manager, Britannia P&I London), Anthony Gardner (Loss Prevention Manager, Britannia P&I London), Panos Trichonas (Fleet Manager, Claims, Britannia P&I Piraeus), Ruth Dresser (Fleet Manager, Claims, Britannia P&I Piraeus) & Sofia Syreloglou (Fleet Manager, Claims, Britannia P&I Piraeus).
Case Study 1: Routine Maintenance, Extraordinary Risk
The first session examined a tragic incident involving an injury and a fatality during routine lifeboat testing. Participants engaged in an in-depth analysis of immediate
post-incident actions, the systemic failures involved, and the resulting legal liabilities under Filipino and Greek Law.
The speakers marked that work planning—even for "simple" or routine tasks—must always include contingency planning.
Taking over a vessel inherently elevates risk; thorough familiarization with safety equipment is a non-negotiable priority.
As the conductor noted, quoting Voltaire: "The danger which is least expected soonest comes to us. "A robust safety culture is the most effective defense against the unexpected.
Case Study 2: Managing Mental Health at Sea
The second roundtable addressed a mental health emergency at sea. By reviewing a case where early warning signs were present but unaddressed, attendees explored the high cost of inaction and the logistical hurdles of providing support in remote environments.
After thoroughly discussing, the speakers concluded that escalations are rarely the result of a single act; they are driven by fatigue, neglect, delayed responses, and poor record-keeping.
Mental health cases evolve into major claims when early warnings are ignored.
Supportive leadership and "honest" reporting systems protect both the crew and the Shipowner. Ultimately, a mentally resilient crew is essential for the safe and profitable operation of any vessel.
The workshop concluded with a sobering reminder: liabilities increase exponentially when visible warning signs are ignored. Proactive management, early intervention, and a culture of transparency are not just moral imperatives—they are fundamental to sound loss prevention.
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Nicholas Frangos and Kantio Sigalas are the new inductees
The Greek Shipping Hall of Fame 2026 induction ceremony recently took place at the Athens Concert Hall, honoring two legendary figures: Captain Nicholas Frangos and Kandio Sigala. This year’s event carried profound historical weight, marking 80 years since the 1946 agreement that allowed Greek shipowners to acquire 100 Liberty ships, a pivotal moment that catalyzed Greece's global maritime dominance.
Captain Nicholas Frangos (1922–2016), hailing from Kardamyla, Chios, was honoured for his technical brilliance and methodical leadership. He co-founded Good Faith Shipping with Nicholas Moundreas, building one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in maritime history. His daughter, Angeliki Frangos, highlighted his philanthropic legacy and his role in managing over 200 vessels throughout his career.
Kandio Sigala (1882–1981) was honored as a trailblazer for women in shipping. Born in Santorini into a seafaring family, she managed a fleet of steamships during the interwar period. Despite losing her fleet during WWII, she demonstrated remarkable resilience by acquiring Liberty ships post-war, earning the respect of titans like Aristotle Onassis for her maritime acumen and integrity.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a rare painting by renowned marine artist Charles Robert Patterson to the U.S. Embassy in Athens. Received by Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle, the gift symbolizes the enduring bond between Greece and the United States. George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, emphasized that Liberty ships were the "backbone" of Greece's post-war reconstruction.
With 45 inductees to date, the Hall of Fame continues to inspire new generations. The event also maintained its charitable mission, providing significant support to Hellenic Hope, represented by George Tsavliris, reinforcing the industry's commitment to social responsibility.
Voting for Inductees takes place annually and is open to members of the Greek Shipping Hall of Fame Academy, currently numbering about 300 prominent individuals in today’s Greek shipping community. The integrity of the on-line voting and the final results are overseen by
accounting and consulting firm Moore Greece.
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A High-Level Conference on Seafarers was held in Limassol by the Shipping Deputy Ministry, within the framework of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU, with the participation of representatives from the shipping industry. Among those attending were the European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy of Greece, Mr. Vassilis Kikilias, as well as Member of the European Parliament and Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism, Ms. Elissavet Vozemberg-Vrionidi.
The Opening Session of the High-Level Ministerial & Stakeholders Conference, was marked by the presence of key European and international leaders shaping the future of maritime transport.
Some insights shared by our distinguished speakers:
- EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas: “Seafarers are among the unsung heroes of our times, spending weeks or months away from home to keep our supply chains intact and our economies growing.”
- Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy of Greece, Mr. Vassilis Kikilias: “competitiveness through shipping is a key factor of our growth and our future "
- Chair of the Transport and Tourism Committee, European Parliament, Ms. Eliza Vozemberg: “Maritime safety, has been a top priority of our Committee”.
Also present were senior officials, key stakeholders, and prominent figures from regional and international maritime organisations, as well as representatives of the global shipping industry.
Under the theme “Investing in Seafarers: Securing the Future of Global Shipping,” the conference focused on seafarers’ education and training, ways to attract and retain talent in the shipping industry, and initiatives to raise awareness and promote maritime and seafaring professions.
During the event, the Shipping Deputy Minister, Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis, on behalf of the Republic of Cyprus, presented an award of recognition to Captain Panagiotis Tsakos for his significant contribution to advancing the maritime sector internationally, as well as for his enduring work in nurturing knowledge, strengthening values, and creating opportunities for those who serve at sea.
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Vietnam is rapidly establishing itself as the preeminent economic force in the Far East, emerging as a formidable peer to China. Boasting a population of 110 million and a GDP of $1.8 trillion, the nation has secured a leading global market share in agri-food sectors—including rice, nuts, and coffee—while simultaneously pivoting toward high-tech manufacturing, consumer electronics, and semiconductors.
Four Decades of "Doi Moi" (Renewal)
During an insightful Press Briefing at the Embassy of Vietnam in Athens, Ambassador Pham Thi Thu Huong detailed the nation’s historic transformation. Since 1986, Vietnam has evolved from a crisis-stricken economy with triple-digit inflation into an upper-middle-income country with a remarkable 8.02% growth rate. It now stands as the world’s top exporter of pepper and cashews, and the second-largest exporter of smartphones and rice.
Administrative Reform and National Vision
The year 2026 marks a "New Era" of national rise. Under the leadership of General Secretary and President To Lam and Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, Vietnam has implemented a radical consolidation of its political system, streamlining ministries and provincial units to accelerate decision-making. The strategic goal is clear: attaining high-income status by 2045 through digital transformation and an average GDP growth of 10% for the 2026-2031 period.
Strengthening Ties with Greece
Diplomatic and economic relations with Greece are reaching new heights, celebrating 50 years of ties in 2025. Key stakeholders, including Mr. Gabriel Petridis (Honorary Consul in Piraeus), highlighted cooperation in shipping and logistics. Meanwhile, Mr. Christos Giannakakis (ETHEAS) and Mr. Vangelis Kanellopoulos (Work In Greece) emphasized prospects in agricultural exports and labor development.
The Embassy’s 2026 agenda includes:
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A new landmark for the city of Piraeus is being created, strengthening the connection between the port, the city, and its citizens. This is a modern, open public space designed to serve as a place for gathering, recreation, and creative activities for people of all ages. On Tuesday, April 28, Piraeus Port Authority S.A. (PPA S.A.) presented the commencement of construction works for a new Park featuring a Model Playground and a Bike Lane, reaffirming its commitment to investments with a meaningful social impact.
The event coincided with the completion of ten years (2016–2026) since the beginning of COSCO SHIPPING’s partnership with Piraeus Port Authority (PPA), a collaboration that has played a decisive role in strengthening the port’s international position, as well as contributing significantly to the development of the Greek economy.
The Park, currently under construction within the port zone in the cruise area, will be an open, safe, and fully accessible space for recreation and sports for all citizens, including people with disabilities. The model playground will provide a modern and creative environment for children of all ages, while the bike lane will promote soft mobility and sustainable transportation.
At the same time, the project is expected to significantly upgrade the wider cruise terminal area, connecting the port with the city and improving visitors’ experience. In this way, Piraeus further strengthens its profile as a modern, welcoming, and attractive destination, while the project contributes to creating a positive first impression of Greece as a whole.
As emphasized by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of PPA S.A., Han Chao, the new project is not merely another infrastructure development, but an investment in people, quality of life, and the future of the city. Among other remarks, he stated: “We perceive the port as a vivid entity inseparably connected with the city of Piraeus and its people. The development of the port goes hand in hand with respect for the local community, and within this framework, we will continue implementing projects that strengthen sustainable development and create long-term value for all”.
The event was attended by the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Hellenic Republic, Fang Qiu, who referred to the significance of the project as an example of strengthening Greek-Chinese cooperation, underlining that socially oriented investments contribute to further enhancing the relations between the two countries and to the promotion of sustainable development.
Welcoming remarks were also delivered by the Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Stefanos Gkikas, the Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Affairs, Domna Michailidou, and the Mayor of Piraeus, Yiannis Moralis. All speakers emphasized that this is a high value-added intervention that substantially improves citizens’ daily lives, enhances quality of life in the city, and contributes to the sustainable urban development of Piraeus.
Mr. Gkikas stated: "Just as it is important for a port to contribute to the country's economy, it is equally important for it to return tangible benefits to society and its citizens. It is precisely within this context that the park currently under construction within the port zone takes shape.
The development of port infrastructure must go hand in hand with projects that improve the everyday lives of citizens."
Ms. Michailidou underlined: “The Port of Piraeus does not look only towards the sea and the world, but also towards the city and its people.
Congratulations on the design and implementation of this project. I wish that the PPA Park will become a vibrant space for gathering, creativity and everyday joy for young and old alike.”
Mr. Moralis noted: “The creation of the new PPA Park is an important addition for the city of Piraeus, as it enhances residents’ daily life and contributes to the gradual upgrading of the wider cruise area. The city and the port should always have as a common goal the improvement of the quality of life of the people of Piraeus.”
The blessing ceremony of the event was conducted by His Eminence Metropolitan of Piraeus, Mr. Seraphim.
The event was moderated by journalist Ms. Velika Karavaltsiou.
PPA S.A. reaffirmed that it invests not only in infrastructure, but also in relationships of trust with the local community, placing particular emphasis on cooperation with the State, the Region, and the Municipality of Piraeus for the implementation of projects with lasting social benefit.
Project Details
Main Project Infrastructure
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M/MARITIME has entered the feeder container segment through the signing of two 2,800 TEU newbuilding vessels with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), marking a targeted expansion of its fleet strategy.
The vessels will be constructed at HHI in South Korea, a globally recognized shipyard for high-specification shipbuilding. This selection reflects M/MARITIME’s consistent focus on quality and technical excellence, ensuring vessels designed for efficiency, reliability and long-term performance.
Built in line with HHI’s eco-efficient CON-GREEN design and compliant with IMO Tier III standards, the vessels will incorporate advanced energy-efficiency systems and high reefer capacity, supporting both operational flexibility and commercial competitiveness. Deliveries are expected from early 2028.
At the same time, M/MARITIME continues to strengthen its presence in the dry bulk sector through three long-term time charter agreements for newbuildings at reputable Japanese shipyards, including Oshima Shipbuilding, Onomichi Dockyard and Imabari Shipbuilding—long-standing partners of the Company. The charters range from five to ten years and include purchase options at the end of each term, with deliveries scheduled between 2029 and 2030.
These developments reflect M/MARITIME’s disciplined growth approach: reinforcing its core dry bulk activity while selectively expanding into adjacent segments. The Company remains focused on high-quality assets, strong counterparties and long-term value creation, supported by enduring partnerships with leading shipyards.
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Speaking at the 11th Delphi Economic Forum, Ilias Tsakiris, Chair of the Ocean Hull Committee of the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI), delivered a pointed assessment of the pressures bearing down on global shipping and the marine insurance industry, from geopolitical flashpoints to the unresolved question of how the industry decarbonises without breaking under the weight of its own ambitions.
The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz dominated the opening day's agenda, set against a high-level panel moderated by European affairs analyst Yiannis Koutsomitis. Joining Mr. Tsakiris on stage were Professor Sotiris Serbos, Foreign Policy Advisor to the Greek Prime Minister; Stavriana Asprogiannidou, Managing Director Marine at Howden Hellas; Koray Köse, CEO and Chief Analyst of KŌSE Advisory; and Safeen Ghafour, Senior Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government.
The discussion centred on the shifting balance in the wider Middle East, the strategic weight of the Strait of Hormuz as a chokepoint for the world's energy trade, and the fallout already being felt across shipping, crew safety and the international insurance market.
"We're already looking at 24 confirmed attacks on commercial vessels, 10 confirmed seafarer deaths, and roughly 20,000 seafarers affected across the region," said Mr. Tsakiris. "At the same time, damage to energy infrastructure is now estimated at somewhere between 25 and 58 billion dollars. This isn't theoretical risk. The consequences are already here."
He was equally direct on how quickly geopolitical tension translates into higher insurance premiums and operating costs for shipowners. Insurance markets, he explained, don't simply react to what has already happened, they price the possibility of what could come next.
"War creates uncertainty, pushes up operational risk and feeds the fear of sudden escalation. That works its way through every part of shipping, freight rates, voyage planning, crew safety and, of course, insurance costs."
Even with premiums rising sharply, insurance cover remains available in high-risk waters, he noted, though the terms are tighter and underwriters far more selective.
"The question isn't whether insurance is available. The real question is whether it can be commercially viable."
On Washington's proposal for state-backed insurance schemes covering vessels transiting Hormuz, Mr. Tsakiris offered a historical perspective. Such mechanisms, he pointed out, are hardly new.
"Government-backed schemes for war risks have been around since the 1950s, when governments stepped in to protect their national fleets during times of crisis. But those kinds of initiatives are usually about defending strategic national interests, not the international fleet as a whole."
On the side of the forum, Mr. Tsakiris also referred to decarbonisation, making adding that the green transition is non-negotiable, but that it has to be grounded in what's actually achievable.
"Decarbonisation isn't a choice, it's a necessity. But the transition has to take account of the real conditions shipping is operating under today, geopolitical tensions, shifting trade routes, sanctions, and the shortages in both fuels and infrastructure."
He pointed to recent remarks by Melina Travlos, President of the Union of Greek Shipowners, as reflecting the industry's position. "As the President of the Union of Greek Shipowners said in her statement on April 16, shipping remains firmly committed to the path toward decarbonisation. But that transition can't be built on ambition alone. It needs realism, technically workable solutions and a common global framework that actually reflects how the market operates."
"What we need is an international framework that works in practice for the shipping industry. And that conversation becomes all the more important with the IMO meeting coming up on April 27."
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Tototheo Global has been certified as a Great Place To Work® in Cyprus and Greece for the third consecutive year, a recognition that reflects the strength of its people and culture. As a leading provider of advanced satellite connectivity and technology solutions for the maritime, enterprise and government sectors, the company continues to strengthen its position as an employer of choice across two competitive and strategically important markets.
The certification is based exclusively on anonymous employee feedback through the Trust Index™ survey. In 2025, Tototheo Global recorded a further increase in overall positive evaluations compared to 2024. The statement reflecting overall employee sentiment, “Taking everything into account, I would say this is a great place to work,” showed a clear increase, underscoring sustained progress in the overall workplace experience.
The results highlight a strong and consistent culture that underpins operational performance and long-term resilience. Leadership credibility stands out, with employees describing management as honest, reliable and aligned with its commitments, fostering trust and stability across teams. This is supported by a well-established focus on employee wellbeing, with high levels of confidence in workplace safety, access to resources and the ability to take time off when needed. A strong sense of belonging and team spirit further differentiates the organisation, alongside a culture where employees feel welcomed and supported. At the same time, fairness and inclusion remain deeply embedded, with high levels of equity across gender and sexual orientation, reinforcing a workplace grounded in mutual respect and professional integrity.
Commenting on the recognition, Co-CEO of Tototheo Global, Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, said: “Being certified as a Great Place To Work® for the third consecutive year in both Cyprus and Greece reflects the consistency of our culture, the strength of our teams and the shared ambition that drives us forward. In a global technology-driven environment, performance depends on trust, accountability and collaboration. These results confirm that our people-centric strategy continues to deliver a stable, inclusive and high-performing workplace.”
The dual certification further strengthens Tototheo Global’s reputation across its international operations, supporting its ability to attract talent and sustain long-term growth and organisational resilience.
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This year’s Induction Ceremony of The Greek Shipping Hall of Fame will take place on the evening of Monday 27 April 2026 at Megaron, The Athens Concert Hall.
Leading personalities of the Greek shipping world and their international partners are expected on the occasion of Greek shipping’s most prestigious annual dinner event.
Celebrating the industry’s leadership, history, and culture, the Greek Shipping Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Dinner is expected to attract a capacity audience of close to 600 guests.
A truly unique occasion, the event honours many of Greek shipping’s most historic personalities and highlights include the unveiling of the Hall of Fame’s latest Inductees – the Inductees for 2025.”
Caroline Lowry, Director of Phoebe Media & Events Ltd, the exclusive event organiser, comments: “Every year, we are very grateful to the many leading organisations that choose to partner with the Greek Shipping Hall of Fame as event sponsors, and we look forward to greeting our supporters and their guests on this very special occasion”.
A donation from the event proceeds will again be made to Greek children’s charities.
The Greek Shipping Hall of Fame thanks event sponsors confirmed to date: ABS, IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry and Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. as Co- Lead Sponsors of the Induction Ceremony & Dinner 2026.
John McDonald, ABS Chairman & CEO comments: “ABS is honored to support the Greek Shipping Hall of Fame and celebrate the visionary leaders of Greek shipping; trailblazers whose entrepreneurial drive, commercial savvy and resilience have shaped the global maritime industry. Our relationship with Greek shipping spans generations. It’s built on trust, shared values and a deep respect for the legacy and future of this remarkable community.”
Theo K. Xenakoudis, Chief Commercial Officer, Managing Director - Piraeus, Greece, IRI / The Marshall Islands Registry comments: “The Greek Shipping Hall of Fame honours the long-term spirit of leadership, vision, and advancement within the Greek shipping community. International Registries, Inc. (IRI) and the Marshall Islands Registry are privileged to continue our support for this event and proudly recognise this year’s honorees as pioneers and visionaries in the industry.”
Chen Gang, Chairman of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, comments: “SWS is honoured to continue its support for the Greek Shipping Hall of Fame in 2026 as a Lead Sponsor of the Induction Ceremony & Dinner to celebrate visionary leaders of Greek shipping.
“During 2025 SWS delivered its 600th vessel, a milestone in its 26-year history of building ships. We are currently constructing China’s second domestically-built large cruise ship for delivery during 2026. “Our journey at SWS is powered by our commitment to intelligent shipbuilding, contributing to a modern, digitalised global shipping industry. We continue to be inspired by Greece’s legacy of maritime excellence, and we look forward to further deepening our partnership and together charting a course to a sustainable maritime future.”
We extend our appreciation and thanks to leading shipping companies TMS Group as Welcome Drinks Sponsor, Navios Maritime Partners as Dinner Sponsor, and The Tsakos Group as After-Dinner Digestifs Sponsor.
Premium Sponsors so far confirmed are Ascenz Marorka, Citi Private Bank, Kpler, Moore Greece, OceanScore, Optima Shipping Services and PPG. Bank Julius Baer is once again enhancing our support to Greek children’s charities. Standard Sponsors to date are Allied Shipbroking, Anglo Eastern, Antipollution, Chevron Marine Lubricants, China Classification Society, ClassNK, Columbia Group, CMB Financial Leasing, Hempel, Korean Register, Kyvernitis Travel, Marichem Marigases Worldwide, Marine Tours, Monjasa, San Marino Ship Register, UK Defence Club, UK P&I Club and Veson Nautical.
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Safe Bulkers, Inc. with the recommendation of the Corporate Governance, Nominating and Compensation Committee, the Board of Directors of the Company voted to expand the size of the Board from nine to eleven directors and to appoint Jeffrey Bunzel and Vasilis Hajioannou to fill the new positions, with immediate effect. The Board has determined that Mr. Bunzel is independent for the purposes of NYSE independence standards and has appointed Mr. Bunzel to serve on the Corporate Governance, Nominating and Compensation Committee, the Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Committee and the Audit Committee.
Mr. Vasilis Hajioannou, son of the Polys V. Hajioannou with experience in Operations and Chartering departments combines technical knowledge with operational oversight. Mr Hajioannou holds a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering and a master’s degree in shipping and logistics from Newcastle University, UK.
Mr. Jeffrey Bunzel, brings more than thirty years experience in Investment, Banking and Capital Markets. He has been Managing Director, Head of Equity Capital Markets at Deutsche Bank AG for 14 years. Before, from 1994-2012 he had been Managing Director at Credit Suisse. Mr Bunzel holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Arts from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
Safe Bulkers Inc. specializes in the ownership of dry bulk vessels. As of September 2025 our fleet of 45 dry bulk vessels consisted of 8 Panamax, 13 Kamsarmax, 17 Post-Panamax and 7 Capesize class vessels with an average age of 10.3 years and an aggregate carrying capacity of 5 million dwt. 85% of our fleet has been build in Japanese shipyards.
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