2023 data from Cruise Lines International Association shows investment in technologies and alternative fuels that will accelerate the maritime transition towards net zero 

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the global cruise industry, released its 2023 Global Cruise Industry Environmental Technologies and Practices Report, showing concrete progress by the sector in advancing its environmental and sustainability agenda.
The 2023 order book data shows that cruise lines continue investment in new vessels with 44 new ships on order during the next five years, representing an investment of $62 billion since 2019.  Of these new ships, 25 will be LNG-powered and seven will be either methanol ready on delivery, or methanol capable, representing an investment in new engine technologies that will accelerate the maritime transition towards a future of low to zero carbon fuels.
Examples of progress cited include the number of alternative fuels pilot programs and trials currently in place with cruise ships. In addition, an increasing number of vessels sailing and launching over the next five years will either use alternative fuels or will be able to incorporate zero carbon fuels when they become available. The 2023 report also demonstrates other significant investments cruise lines are making to reduce emissions at berth and at sea, such as shoreside electricity, which allows cruise ships to switch off engines for significant emissions reduction while in port.
More cruise lines are diversifying energy solutions by incorporating multi-fuel engines, trialing fuel cell technology, wind (including solid sail) technology, as well as photovoltaic solutions and battery storage for power shaving.  Efficiency tracking systems are now in use on 171 CLIA-member ships, representing 60% of the global fleet, with many more systems planned. 
In addition, cruise lines are pursuing fuel flexibility, investing today in propulsion technologies with conversion capabilities for the future—with 32 pilot projects and collaborative initiatives underway with sustainable fuel producers and engine companies.
President, and CEO, CLIA, Kelly Craighead said: “Cruise lines continue to transform the modern fleet to protect the oceans, air and destinations enjoyed by millions of passengers each year. Our data shows a step change in the uptake of new environmental technologies by our cruise line members. Already today cruise lines are building the ships of the future which will run on new, more sustainable engine technologies. The introduction of these new technologies and the many pilot programs and trials in place reveal how the cruise industry is an innovator and early adopter of technologies that are helping us sail to a more sustainable future.”
The availability of sustainable marine fuels remains essential to achieving the maritime industry’s decarbonisation goals and underscores the need for governments to support research efforts to accelerate development of these fuels so that they are safe, viable and available for use.
Chairman of CLIA Pierfrancesco Vago said: “Achieving our collective sustainability ambitions requires substantial investment from the public and private sector.  The cruise industry, as part of the broader maritime sector, is doing its part by building the future of cruise into our ships today. We need governments to support research efforts, as well as provide a clear and stable regulatory landscape, so that fuel suppliers and others can do the critical work needed.”  
The data shows that CLIA ocean-going cruise lines continue their work to reduce emissions.
Highlights of progress include:

Shoreside Electricity (SSE) Capability – Plugging into shoreside electricity allows ship engines to be switched off, reducing emissions by up to 98%, depending on the mix of energy sources, while a ship is in port, according to studies conducted by a number of the world’s ports and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

• Across the CLIA cruise-line member fleet, 120 ships (46% of the total and a 48% increase in the number of ships with SSE since 2022) are equipped to connect to shoreside electricity, with 86% of CLIA member ships (representing 95% of global passenger capacity) coming online between now and 2028 specified for shoreside electricity system.
• Currently 32 ports (compared to 29 ports in 2022), representing fewer than 2% of the world’s ports, have at least one cruise berth with plug-in capability.
• By 2028, more than 210 ships with shoreside power capability are expected, plus additional ships to be retrofitted with the capability, representing a total of 72% of ships and 74% of global passenger capacity.
• In 2022, CLIA has announced that its ocean cruise line members have made a commitment that all ships calling at ports capable of providing shoreside power will be equipped to either use SSE by 2035 or be able to use alternative low-carbon technologies, as available, to reduce emissions in port.
• As part of the EU’s Fit for 55 green program, by 2030, major ports in Europe will be required to have shoreside power, which will further accelerate the available port infrastructure investment in that region.

Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems – As part of their overarching sustainability focus, cruise lines have committed to not discharging untreated sewage anywhere in the world, during normal operations.

• Across the CLIA cruise-line member fleet, 202 ships (77% of the total), representing 80% of global passenger capacity (a 12% increase from 2022) are equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems. These systems operate to a higher standard than shoreside treatment plants in many coastal cities.
• All CLIA-member cruise line new-build ships are specified for advanced wastewater treatment systems—which will bring the total to 242 ships, representing 80% of the fleet and 84% of global capacity.
• In addition, since 2019, the number of ships with advanced wastewater treatment systems capable of meeting the more stringent standards of the Baltic Sea Special Area has increased 167%. Today, nearly one-third of CLIA member ships have this capability.

Renewable fuels and alternative energy sources – Various CLIA member lines are trialing, using, and   incorporating into new-build ships the capability to run on renewable fuels, including biofuels and synthetic carbon fuels.

• Within the CLIA member fleet, four ships sailing today use renewable biofuel as an energy source—and an additional four new-build ships are expected to be configured for renewable biofuels.
• In addition, 24 ships currently have biofuel trials and two have synthetic carbon  fuels trials.
• Seven new-build ships are anticipated to run on zero carbon fuels, including five ships envisioned to use green methanol and two envisioned to use green hydrogen.
• 15% of new-build cruise ships entering service in the next five years are anticipated to be equipped with battery storage and/or fuel cells to allow for hybrid power generation.

Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Fuel – As the cruise industry anticipates the transition to a future of sustainable, renewable fuels, several cruise ships are utilizing liquified natural gas (LNG). Ships designed with LNG engines and fuel supply systems are able to switch to bio or synthetic LNG in the future, with little or no modifications.

• The 2023 report found 48% of new-build capacity will be designed with LNG engines and fuel supply systems. These ships are part of a future generation of vessels that will be capable of running on renewable marine fuels once fuel providers are able to make them available at scale.
• Based on analyses by SeaLNG and others, LNG is currently the fossil fuel available at scale that has the best performance in reducing atmospheric emissions. LNG has virtually zero sulfur emissions and particulate emissions, reduces NOx emissions by approximately 85%, and achieves up to a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

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The top golf and maritime institution, the Greek Maritime Golf Event, which has emerged in recent years as the best golf event in Greece and Cyprus, returned on September 7-10, 2023, at Costa Navarino, Messinia bringing together once again top executives of the global and Greek maritime industry.

Two days full of golf
For the 9th year, the Greek Maritime Golf Event offered unique moments and experiences at the two signature 18-hole courses The Dunes Course and The Bay Course, in an idyllic landscape full of centuries-old olive trees with a stunning view of the Ionian Sea, the historic bay of Navarino and the picturesque port of Pylos.
With amazing weather, on Friday, September 8, participants took part in a shotgun scramble at The Bay Course, while on Saturday, September 9, the golfing action moved to The Dunes Course for another shotgun scramble.
In addition, the event took care of non-golfers who had the opportunity to attend the Golf Clinic and learn the basics of the Olympic sport at The Dunes Course.

All together for a good cause
The Greek Maritime Golf Event is a tournament with great social work every year. This year, the top golf event supported Parents Association of Children with Cancer “Floga”. More specifically, during this year’s award ceremony to the winners, on Saturday, September 9, attendees had the opportunity to directly contribute the amount they wished by taking part in raffles for significant lottery prizes. The total amount collected was given to Floga, which stands by children suffering from cancer and their families, fights for better medical, mental, and social care for them, shares their fears and concerns, supports their struggle in any way possible, and vindicates substantial presence in issues relevant to the medical, mental, and social care of these children. The Auction Partners who contributed with rich gifts to the implementation of the lottery were Miele, Costa Navarino, The Margi, Tsikeli Boutique Hotel Meteora, Iliada Sunset Suites, Namaste Boutique Apartments, Marmari Bay Hotel, Semeli Estate, Ogarden Suites, Grand Meteora Hotel, Platanos Steakhouse.

Side activities
On Friday, September 8, the event greeted its participants at the Welcome Cocktail by Marine Tours, under lounge saxophone music. The people were welcomed by Mr. Konstantinos Oikonomou, CEO of Marine Tours Group, the leading travel organization in Southeastern Europe, with a long tradition of covering the professional travel needs of the maritime community (Marine & Offshore Travel). Marine Tours company traditionally supports the event and embraces its actions every year, as well as its charitable purpose.
During this event, guests had the opportunity to enjoy the unique cocktails of Grey Goose and the wide selection of wines, from the whole variety of Oreinos Helios, of the top Greek winery from Nemea Semeli Estate, by chilled in the wine cooler of Miele, which keeps the wines at the ideal temperature.

A Unique Golf Experience
The Greek Maritime Golf Event’s production team made sure to provide a rich golfing experience throughout the tournament. The specially trained team of Miele Hellas was present at the golf courses offering freshly ground coffee, from beans of its own production and coffee machines with the ability to identify the user, for the best result, as well as tasty creations such as pizzas, German-style toast with syglino from Mani and sfela from Messinia, cheese pies and chicken pies with handmade phyllo, with the signature of Miele’s Chef. At the same time, all participants began their day with a breakfast starting kit containing nuts, dried fruits, breadsticks, and pasteli from Miele as well as unique sugar- free cereal bars from Daily Deli. At the food and beverage stations, all players enjoyed the authentic Greek cuisine with unique Greek souvlaki and fresh fruits from Messinia from Poseidonia Restaurant, exquisite products such as turkey, and authentic pastourma from Miran, they were hydrated with Minoa Water, the first Greek bottled water in environmentally friendly recyclable paper packaging, they drank ready-made refreshing Bombay Sapphire Gin & Tonic cocktails and the unique Messinian beer NEMA Beer, and tasted the Messinian juice made from natural ingredients Athi Rodi. The golfers used Messinian Spa sunscreens rich in natural ingredients, based on Kalamata olive oil, for their protection from the sun and had the opportunity to try the excellent selection of Habanos cigars at the cigar station that had been set up. Finally, Miele sponsored the event’s Hole- In-One award with a gift of great value.
In the context of this year’s event, the recognized Greek PGA golfer and organizer of the Greek Maritime Golf Event, Mr. Thanos Karantzias, stated: “It is my great pleasure and honor to see the maritime community growing every year, always standing by us all these nine years and continue to support our actions and work. It gives us the strength to continue and leads this top institution even higher. The players showed their enthusiasm through golf for another year, lived unique moments at the Costa Navarino signature golf courses, and practically contributed to the important social work carried out by ‘Floga’. I would like to sincerely thank all the sponsors and partners who helped make this tournament possible. We are renewing our appointment for the 10th anniversary year, a milestone in the history of the event, with even more experiences and surprises for everyone”.

The winners
In the overall team standings, the team of Heard, Papadopoulou, and John Gallagher won the 1st place. The first-place team was awarded by Mr. Theo Xenakoudis Chief Commercial Officer / Managing Director, Piraeus-Greece of IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry, internationally recognized for its outstanding customer service and high-quality
fleet. Second place went to the team of Oikonomou, Angelakis, Tziotis, Sorotos, while the team of Chiotopoulos, Kanellakis, Dalakouras, Vezlihvtsev took the third place. In the other categories, two more special awards were given. Specifically, George Manouilidis won the “Closest to the Pin” award and Taxiarchis Vezlihvtsev the “Longest Drive” award. The winning teams were given premium bottles of Grey Goose, magnum delear bottles of Semeli Estate, and Bombay bottles, while all the winners were given rich Messinian Spa gifts. The “Closest to the Pin” winner received the collectible Miele Riedel glassware collection and the “Longest Drive” winner a club from Handy Chart.

Significant companies embraced the event
Greek Maritime Golf Event was attended by some of the most significant maritime companies from Greece and Cyprus, and many other important Greek companies that supported the event.
IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry was the event’s Platinum Sponsor.
Mainline Shipping Company was the event’s Gold Sponsor.
Aegean Baltic Bank, Arrow Hellas, DNV, Marine Tours, and Swift Marine were the event’s Silver Sponsors.
Miele was the Official Sponsor.
All transportation was carried out with absolute safety by the event’s Logistics Partner DHL.
Poseidonia Restaurant and Grey Goose were the Official Supporters.
The pioneer in technical sportswear Under Armour, was the Official Clothing Partner, which dressed all participants and the production team in the event’s official t-shirt.
Messinian Spa was the event’s Official Beauty Partner.
Minoa Water was the event’s Official Water.
Karalis Beach Hotel, which offers luxury and comfort overlooking the historic Navarino Bay, as well as Miran, Athi Rodi, Daily Deli, NEMA Beer, and Semeli Estate were the event’s Partners.
The award-winning production company Boo Productions was the Audio Visual Partner.
The event was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism.
Greek Maritime Golf Event was organized by Birdie Events, through an initiative of the recognized Greek PGA golfer, Mr. Thanos Karantzias. The Sports Marketing Agency of the Year ActiveMedia Group undertook the event’s Golf Production. The golf tournament was exclusively addressed to distinguished executives of the maritime industry.
#greekmaritimegolfevent #costavarino

 photo credit: 
1. Impressive photo from the The Bay Course having Navarino Bay at the background (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
2. Impressive photo from the The Bay Course having the city of Pylos at the background (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
3. Golfing action from the 9th Greek Maritime Golf Event (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
4. Impressive photo from the The Dunes Course (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
5. The winning team of Heard, Papadopoulou, John Gallagher with Mr. Theo Xenakoudis Chief Commercial Officer / Managing Director, Piraeus-Greece της IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
6. Golfing action from the 9th Greek Maritime Golf Event (photo by Zagas Photography / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
7. Golfing action from the 9th Greek Maritime Golf Event (photo by Zagas Photography / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
8. Golfing action from the 9th Greek Maritime Golf Event (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)
9. Golfing action from the 9th Greek Maritime Golf Event (photo by Dimitris Tosidis / Greek Maritime Golf Event)

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The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) appointed Alexander Prokopakis as its new Executive Director. This decision follows a rigorous search process and consideration by the association.
Joining the IBIA team on September 1st with Edmund Hughes, the recently appointed IBIA IMO Representative, Alexander will be instrumental in navigating the association through the evolving challenges and opportunities in the marine fuel industry.
Well-regarded within the IBIA community, Alexander brings a strong background of active association membership. His recent leadership as the Chair of IBIA’s Bunker License and Mass Flow Meter Working Group and the influential joint IBIA and BIMCO survey were pivotal in ensuring its success. His stewardship has not only driven progress within our association but also fortified IBIA's stance on Mass Flow Meters (MFMs).
In addition to his IBIA activity, Alexander brings a wealth of bunker industry experience as a physical supplier and more recently as an innovator in alternative fuel supply. In his new role, Alexander will be collaborating closely with the entire IBIA team - the Global Board, the Regional Boards, and IBIA’s Secretariat. His focus will be on the internal management of the association, enacting the Global Board’s strategic plans and ensuring alignment across all IBIA’s divisions. This will pave the way for the continued growth and development of IBIA and servicing the needs of the membership.
Reflecting on this appointment, Timothy Cosulich, Chair of IBIA, remarked, "Alexander's depth of experience within bunkering, management and business innovation makes him an ideal choice for this key role at IBIA. With full confidence, we believe that with his addition, our association is poised to scale new heights and uphold its tradition of leadership within the bunker industry."
The IBIA Board and its Chair, Timothy Cosulich, warmly welcome Alexander, eagerly anticipating the shared successes and milestones in the journey ahead. We encourage our members and partners to join us in extending their congratulations and support to Alexander Prokopakis.

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The 15th Annual Capital Link Shipping & Marine Services Forum will take place on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 116 Pall Mall in London. This event is held in cooperation with the London Stock Exchange, and in conjunction with the 2023 London International Shipping Week. 
This event aims to provide investors with a comprehensive review and current outlook of the various shipping markets and in addition, cover topics of critical interest to industry participants, financiers and investors. 
Investor Meetings
1x1 meetings with Executives of Shipping Companies are available upon request for institutional investors.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
H.E. Miltiadis Varvitsiotis Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Hellenic Republic
H.E. Charlotte Vere Baroness Vere of Norbiton – Parliamentary Undersecretary of State Minister for Aviation, Maritime & Security, Department for Transport, United Kingdom 
Mr. Arsenio Dominguez Director Marine Environment Division IMO
Ms. Nusrat Ghani Minister of State for Industry and Economic Security Department for Business and Trade Minister of State for the Investment Security Unit Cabinet Office

CAPITAL RAISING IN LONDON

8:30 - 8:45 AM

Mr. Tom Attenborough Head of International Business Development, Primary Markets – London Stock Exchange Group

SHIPPING - NAVIGATING THROUGH INDUSTRY TRANSFORMATION

8:50 - 9:30 AM

Moderator: Ms. Kate Silverstein, Partner, Assets & Structured Finance Group – Watson Farley Williams

• Mr. Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO –DNV Maritime
• Mr. Constantin Baack, CEO –MPC Container Ships
• Mr. Jan Rindbo, CEO –Norden
• Mr. Carl-Johan Hagman, President & CEO –NYK Group Europe
• Ms. Claire Wright, General Manager Commercial & Strategy –Shell Shipping and Maritime

DRY BULK SECTOR

9:35 -10:15 AM

Moderator: Mr. Emanuele (Manu) Ravano, Co-CEO – IFCHOR GALBRAITHS

• Mr. Gary Vogel, Chief Executive Officer –Eagle Bulk
• Mr. Carlos Pena, CCO – C Transport Maritime; Director –GoodBulk Ltd
• Mr. Simos Spyrou, Co-CFO –Star Bulk Carriers
• Mr. Edward Buttery, CEO –Taylor Maritime Investments
• Mr. William Fairclough, Managing Director –Wah Kwong Maritime Transport Holdings

ALL ABOUT CARBON - NAVIGATING THE WAVES OF CHANGE

10:20 - 10:55 AM

Moderator: Mr. Nick Brown, Global Brand and Communications Director, Marine & Offshore – Bureau Veritas

• Mr. Mark O'Neil, President & CEO –Columbia Shipmanagement; President - InterManager
• Mr. Mads Peter Zacho, CEO –Navigator Holdings
• Mr. Alastair McDonald, Chief Corporate Development Officer –Purus Marine
• Ms. Friederike Hesse, Co-Founder and MD –ZERO44

SHIP FINANCE - ADAPTING TO THE EVOLVING MARKET, REGULATORY & GEOPOLITICAL LANDSCAPE

11:00 - 11:40 AM

Moderator: Ms. Diana Syziu, Partner, Corporate & Ship Finance – Hill Dickinson LLP

• Mr. Remco Jongkind, Managing Director –ABN AMRO
• Mr. Philipp Wünschmann, Global Head of Shipping –Berenberg
• Mr. Vasilios Maroulis, Managing Director, Global Industry Head, Shipping, Logistics & Offshore –Citi
• Mr. Christo Nikolov, Senior Vice President, Ocean Industries –DNB
• Mr. Harris Antoniou, Founder & Managing Director –Neptune Maritime Leasing Ltd

INVESTMENT & CAPITAL ALLOCATION OPTIONS /STRATEGIES IN SHIPPING TODAY

11:45 - 12:25 PM

Moderator: Mr. Panos Katsambas, Global Co-Lead Financial Industry Group, Partner – Reed Smith LLP

• Mr. Christoph Toepfer, CEO –Borealis Maritime
• Mr. James Cirenza, Managing Director –DNB Markets
• Mr. Andrian Dacy, Managing Director & Group Head, Global Transportation Group –J.P. Morgan Asset Management
• Mr. Ole B. Hjertaker, CEO –SFL Corporation Ltd
• Mr. Paulo Almeida, CIO –Tufton Investment Management

MINISTERIAL & IMO KEYNOTE ROUNDTABLE SETTING THE PATH FORWARD

12:30 - 1:10 PM

Moderator: Mr. Nick Brown, CEO – Lloyd's Register

H.E. Miltiadis Varvitsiotis Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Hellenic Republic

H.E. Charlotte Vere Baroness Vere of Norbiton – Parliamentary Undersecretary of State Minister for Aviation, Maritime & Security, Department for Transport, United Kingdom 

Mr. Arsenio Dominguez Director Marine Environment Division IMO

MANAGING CHANGE IN AN ERA OF TRANSFORMATION

1X1 DISCUSSION BETWEEN 2:10 - 2:30 PM

• Dr. Martin Stopford
• Mr. Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman & CEO –ABS

CRUDE OIL TANKER SECTOR

2:35 - 3:15 PM

Moderator: Mr. Edward Royle, Managing Director – IFCHOR GALBRAITHS

• Mr. Brian Gallagher, Head of IR & Executive Committee Member –Euronav
• Mr. Pankaj Khanna, CEO –Heidmar
• Mr. Jeffrey Pribor, CFO –International Seaways
• Dr. Nikolas Tsakos, CEO –Tsakos Energy Navigation

PRODUCT TANKER SECTOR

3:20 - 4:00 PM

Moderator: Mr. Martin Kjendlie, Managing Director – ViaMar (VesselsValue)

• Mr. Bart Kelleher, CFO –Ardmore Shipping
• Mr. Carlos Balestra di Mottola, CFO –d'Amico International Shipping S.A.
• Mr. Marco Fiori, CEO –Premuda SpA
• Mr. Ulf Bäcklund, General Manager Chartering, Crude & Fuel –Stena Bulk AB

SHIPPING - THE PATH FORWARD

1x1 DISCUSSION BETWEEN 4:05 - 4:25 PM

• Mr. Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman –International Chamber of Shipping; President & MD – Grimaldi Euromed SpA; Managing Director – Grimaldi Group
• Mr. Ugo Salerno, Chairman & CEO –RINA

ENHANCING THE COMPETITIVENESS OF THE UK MARITIME CLUSTER

4:30 - 4:40 PM

Ms. Nusrat Ghani Minister of State for Industry and Economic Security Department for Business and Trade Minister of State for the Investment Security Unit Cabinet Office

LNG SHIPPING SECTOR

4:40 – 5:20 PM

Moderator: Mr. Panagiotis Mitrou, Global Gas Segment Director – Lloyds Register

• Mr. Richard Tyrrell, CEO –CoolCo Ltd
• Mr. Knut Traaholt, CFO –FLEX LNG
• Mr. Achilleas Tasioulas, CFO –GasLog Ltd. & GasLog Partners LP. 
• Mr. Eduardo Maranhao, CFO –Golar LNG

DO SANCTIONS WORK?

5:25 - 6:00 PM

Moderators: Ms. Kirsty MacHardy, Partner & Ms. Sue Millar, Partner – Stephenson Harwood

• Mr. Richard Fulford-Smith, CEO – Affinity Shipping
• Ms. Michelle Wiese Bockmann, Senior Analyst, Lloyd's List Intelligence & Markets Editor –Lloyd's List
• Ms. Laura Harbidge, UK Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) –HM Treasury, International Group
• Ms. Claire McCleskey, Assistant Director of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) –U.S. Department of Treasury
• Ms. Isabelle Monfort, Russia Sanctions Team Leader, Directorate General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA)– European Commission

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The Panama Canal has reported that the queue of vessels waiting to transit has shown improvement. Standing at 108 at both entrances to the waterway, there are 20% less vessels waiting in total since last week (135), which is normal for this time of year. 
An extended dry season and the El Niño phenomenon caused the Panama Canal to implement measures earlier this year to save water, in order to maintain high reliability levels. While these measures and the season’s high vessel demand have had an impact on waiting times for some –mostly for vessels without reservations— such demand underscores the maritime industry's continued preference for the route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. 
Results to Date (Fiscal Year 2023 October 1st – September 30th)  
One month before the end of Fiscal Year 2023, the Panama Canal total transits are 799 above budget and 470 million tons have transited the Canal, on budget.  
The number of vessels on stand-by will depend on market demands. As we approach the peak season at the Panama Canal, and if diminished rainfall patterns remain within projections, a queue of vessels above the usual is expected, but measures taken by the Canal have proven effective. Those measures are: 

1. For the Neopanamax locks, 13.4 meters (44 feet) maximum draft levels (down from an average of 15.2 meters (50 feet) last year.  
2. For the Panamax locks, an average of 32 transits per day (down from 36) 

The Panama Canal urges its customers to make reservations to transit, as this allows them to secure a spot. Approximately 50% of transits (most of which use the Panamax locks) do not make reservations and transit on a first-come, first-served basis. The Panama Canal makes sure to provide timely information to all its customers.  
Lake Levels 
The lack of rainfall has impacted Gatun Lake, now at 24.2 meters (79.7 feet), compared to 26.6 meters (87.41 feet) in September of previous years.  
Generally, the lake ends a normal rainy season at 27.1 meters (89 feet) in November and ends the dry season at the end of April at 25.9 meters (85 feet). Measures taken will be maintained for the remainder of this year and throughout 2024, unless weather conditions change significantly from current forecasts. 

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The new North Star of the Celestyal fleet, Celestyal Journey, set sail on her maiden voyage around the Aegean, cruising in the expert hands of industry veteran, captain Angelos Vassilakos.
Departing from Piraeus, Athens on Saturday, 02 September, Celestyal Journey’s first guests are now enjoying her inaugural seven-night “Idyllic Aegean” itinerary continuing the company’s ethos of truly immersing guests deep into the destination culture, visiting Thessaloniki, Kusadasi, Heraklion (Crete), Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos.
Celestyal’s CEO, Chris Theophilides comments: “On 02 September, we successfully launched a new direction to our Celestyal product offering, as we celebrated our newest ship, Celestyal Journey, taking to the seas. It’s an extremely exciting time for us at Celestyal as we continue our investment into the fleet, with this occasion marking the start of a new chapter in the company’s vision to offer a new premium stay-in-style experience.”
To celebrate Journey’s inaugural voyage and to showcase the substantially increased premium balcony capacity onboard, Celestyal is extending its special promotion of a complimentary suite upgrade on all Journey bookings* made until 31 October, for travel for the rest of the year. This includes their award winning seven night, ‘Three Continents’ itinerary which commences on the new ship from 21 October, and the special 8-, 11-, 18- and 19-night festive sailings departing in December (on 16 December for the 11- and 19-night sailing, 09 December for the 18-night sailing, and 27 December for the 8-night sailing respectively).
Detailed information regarding The Celestyal Journey’s itineraries can be found on celestyal.com and more information on the current special offers can be found here and through their trusted global travel partners.
*The generous superior suite upgrade will be applied to all XD, SJA, SJB bookings made during this time.
About Celestyal
Celestyal has fast built an award-winning reputation and recognition as the number one choice for travellers to the Greek Islands and East Mediterranean thanks to its regional expertise and exceptional hospitality. The company operates two vessels, each one intimate enough to provide guests with a genuine and highly personalized experience.
The foundation of the company’s philosophy is built on a unique Greek heritage which combines outstanding hospitality with genuine cultural destination immersion and provides authentic, lifetime experiences both onboard and onshore.
Awards
Since 2014, Celestyal has received top honors in the Tourism Awards, one of the largest and most prestigious awards programs within the Greek tourism industry. These include one Platinum, 15 Gold, 10 Silver and nine Bronze awards covering Guest Experience Excellence, Solo Travel, CSR Initiatives, Contribution to National Economy, FAM and Press Trips, Communication Campaign and Multichannel Marketing Campaign.
In December 2022, Celestyal won a Bronze Award at the British Travel Awards in the ‘‘Best Operator for Mini Cruises’’ category and was named one of the top ocean cruise lines for ‘’Best Service’’ at the annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards 2022, an award also received in 2018 and 2019.
Ιn 2019 and 2020, Celestyal was recognized for its overall contribution and commitment to the development of the cruise industry in the Eastern Mediterranean region at the MedCruise Awards.
Corporate Responsibility
Celestyal is deeply committed to sustainability and ethical business practices. The company actively supports the local communities in the destinations it visits, particularly in the field of education. Additionally, Celestyal supports cultural NGOs to promote youth entrepreneurship, marine student development and child welfare.
ISO Certification
The entire spectrum of Celestyal’s ship management, including technical, hotel and crew management, and offices, are certified in accordance with ISO 9001/14001 standards. The certifying authority is DNV, which is widely recognized as the biggest and most respected rating agency in the marine industry.

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Recently, Headway Technology Group and China National Energy Group reached a cooperation agreement to provide “Methanol Fuel Supply System” for the latest built 10000DWT bulk carrier of methanol dual-fuel integrated electric propulsion. This project is the first set of actual ship orders in domestic market for methanol fuel supply system, marking another recognition by partners on Headway’s low carbon shipping solution, while also indicating that alternative fuels have officially entered the era of methanol for transportation in domestic trade.
The dual-fuel driven ship will be constructed by Yard in Hubei, classified under the CCS Classification Society. The main driving power configuration is four sets of methanol dual-fuel four-stroke generators. Headway will provide a one-stop solution including methanol storage tank, methanol Fuel handling module, auxiliary heat exchange module, methanol discharge and collection module, nitrogen generator module, double-wall pipes as well as the safety control system, etc. The whole package is expected to be delivered to the customer at the end of 2023.
Headway OceanGuard® Methanol Fuel Supply System has received orders from both low-speed engines and medium-speed engines. It was independently developed by Headway, suitable for sea or river-going vessels of methanol dual-fuel engines. With the modularized and redundant design, it features among others efficient operation, reliable security, flexible deployment, less energy loss, small space occupation, starting up with just one click of button, self-diagnosis. Up till now, it has obtained AiP approvals from DNV, RINA and other major classification societies.
In the future, Headway will continue focusing on maritime trends of zero-emission and vessel intelligence, providing green, safe, intelligent and one-stop decarbonization solutions to business partners.
Image: The picture shows the module of methanol fuel supplied by Headway.

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Neptune Lines ordered two next generation vessels, specially designed for its short sea trades. Fujian Mawei shipyard in China will build the highly efficient 4200 CEU DF PCTC vessels which will be both delivered in 2026.
The new vessels, under the Genesis Project, are the first two of a new series which reflects Neptune’s strategy to supplement its fleet over the next decade, increase relevant cargo capacity by 36% from current core fleet vessels, and reduce emissions to remain well ahead of global targets.  Both vessels have hybrid energy systems - designed and constructed to use battery installation to supply peak power - and are dual fueled able to utilize LNG or VLSFO as fuel for reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a high pressure 2-stroke engine.  A controllable pitch propeller with shaft generator and multiple thrusters are utilized for the propulsion and efficient maneuvering of the vessels.  Shore power capability will be installed, able to connect to port grids when available to remove emissions when in port. The design has been developed together with Deltamarin and the vessels will be classed by DNV.
“We are proud that Neptune Lines has chosen us as the Designer for their next generation PCTC vessels and are pleased with the excellent co-operation between participating parties throughout the design development. Secondly, we look forward to working with Fujian Mawei Shipbuilding, providing them with engineering services and supporting them in the execution of this cutting-edge newbuilding program for Neptune Lines”, says Janne Uotila, CEO of Deltamarin.
“Neptune Lines continues to improve its environmental performance by using the latest advanced technologies, fuels, and scale improvements. We are determined to drive the energy transition of the shipping industry, while remaining committed to providing adaptable and sophisticated solutions to our customers’ needs and reacting swiftly to their demands. We remain dedicated to our mantra of Wake Forward.” states Neptune Lines’s CEO Craig Jasienski.

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VIKING Norsafe Life-saving Equipment HELLAS has secured orders from Greece’s Ministry of Shipping & Island Policy to deliver 31 patrol boats and three high-speed boats to the Hellenic Coast Guard. The orders, covered in three separate contracts with the VIKING Life-saving Equipment subsidiary, are part of an EU-backed Hellenic Coast Guard procurement program which was initiated four years ago.
Two of the contracts cover 31 boats based on VIKING Norsafe’s proven Munin S1200 hull form, with the design adapted to meet client requirements. All of them feature 2X inboard diesel engines to support service speeds of 35 knots and top speeds of 50 knots.
In the first, co-funded by the Operational Programme for Fisheries and the Sea, VIKING will supply 10 x 11.3m length, 12-person patrol boats. In the second, co-funded by the Internal Security Fund (ISF), VIKING will deliver 21 boats to uphold border controls; in this case, one boat is also being co-funded by the Ionian Islands Regional Operational Programme.
The third contract, also co-financed by ISF, covers the supply of three high-speed ‘Metis 750’ RHIBS, which will be loaded onboard Hellenic Coastguard vessels to provide rapid patrol and rescue capability. These 7.5m length, 5-person vessels will be equipped with twin outboard 200hp engines, to achieve service speeds of 35 knots and top speeds of 45 knots.
“Given the multiple stakeholders involved and the different situations these vessels will need to handle, it is especially significant that VIKING Norsafe patrol boats are once again the preferred choice for Hellenic seaborne forces,” said John Georgiadis, General Manager, VIKING Norsafe Life-saving Equipment HELLAS. “Today, as well as designing and marketing a complete portfolio of boats from 5m in length up to 60-knot interceptors, we are building the full range, including in-house GRP manufacturing and assembly: we are in very good position to have worthwhile discussions with all types of clients.”
In a period of extraordinary activity for VIKING in Greece, the contracts continue a run of success for VIKING Norsafe in support of Hellenic seaborne forces. An initial four Munin S1200 boats have recently been delivered to the Hellenic Army Special Forces, with three more to follow this summer as part of an extensive frame agreement. VIKING recently delivered eight ambulance boats to the Hellenic Coastguard and 11 VIKING Norsafe METIS RIBs to the Hellenic Navy.
“Securing these contracts is a huge achievement and a major endorsement of the reputation for excellence VIKING Norsafe continues to consolidate in Greece for the development, production, service support and crew training of its patrol and rescue boat portfolio,” added Eirik Møllergaard, Senior Sales Manager Defence & Professional, VIKING Life-Saving equipment.
About VIKING
VIKING Life-Saving Equipment A/S is a global leader in maritime, offshore and fire safety solutions.
We manufacture, market and service safety and firefighting equipment for passenger and cargo ships, offshore installations, offshore wind turbines, fishing vessels, navies, helicopter services, fire departments and leisure yachts around the world.
VIKING’s products protect passengers and crew on many of the world’s largest cruise liners and cargo ships, and we help to ensure safe conditions for workers on some of the world’s most advanced offshore platforms.
We also enable shipowners and owners/operators of offshore installations to focus on their business by managing their service tasks and ensuring the regulatory compliance of all their products and solutions.
VIKING is a privately held corporation, founded in 1960. In recent years, VIKING acquired the Norwegian company Norsafe, whose lifeboats have been used around the world since 1904, and Drew Marine’s FSR division, one of the world’s three largest providers of Marine Fire Service. Headquartered in Esbjerg, Denmark, VIKING products are manufactured in Denmark, Norway, Bulgaria, Greece, China and Thailand.

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DNV has granted a letter of professional opinion categorising ERMA FIRST BLUE CONNECT as an energy-saving device and verifying its positive impact on Carbon Intensity Indicator performance in the field of sustainable maritime solutions provider.
Following a thorough review, DNV has issued a letter of professional opinion confirming that ERMA FIRST’s alternative maritime power (AMP) system, BLUE CONNECT, meets the requirements for categorisation as an ‘energy-saving device’ (ESD). In the same document, DNV recognises BLUE CONNECT’s ability to improve vessel Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings in line with regulations set out by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). 
Dimitris Tsoulos, BLUE CONNECT Director, ERMA FIRST, said: “BLUE CONNECT’s official recognition as an energy-saving device that can help ship owners to improve their CII rating is a significant milestone for the product and for ERMA FIRST as an organisation. This letter of professional opinion from DNV provides evidence of the benefits BLUE CONNECT can deliver as we strive to offer solutions that facilitate regulatory compliance and support the decarbonisation of shipping and the protection of coastal environments.” 
By plugging into an onshore power supply and shutting down its diesel auxiliary engines while berthed, a vessel equipped with BLUE CONNECT not only saves energy but eliminates the emission of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide in port, thereby reducing its overall carbon intensity per transport work, Tsoulos explained. In addition to improving CII ratings in accordance with IMO requirements, the solution allows ship operators to comply with port regulations as authorities worldwide continue to develop and implement requirements for the use of shore power at berth. 
As the leading global manufacturer of ballast water treatment systems (BWTS), ERMA FIRST considers the protection of marine ecosystems as its primary objective. In developing BLUE CONNECT, the company drew on the experience gained through its industry-leading ERMA FIRST FIT BWTS, to create a product that goes far beyond regulatory compliance in terms of environmental benefits. Specifically, BLUE CONNECT helps improve air quality and reduce noise and vibrations in ports, enhancing health and quality of life in surrounding communities while minimising impacts on aquatic fauna. 
The solution is suitable for retrofit and newbuild installations and is available in containerised or stand-alone formats. Standard models currently cater to Ro-Ro, Ro-Pax and pure-passenger ferries as well as container ships, cruise ships and tankers, but the system can be tailored to the needs of other vessel types. 
Learn more about the benefits of BLUE CONNECT and AMP in general in ERMA FIRST white paper Alternative Maritime Power: The Key to Greener Ports, available to download now.
ABOUT ERMA FIRST: ERMA FIRST - Preserving and Protecting the Marine Ecosystem 
Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Greece, ERMA FIRST is a leading manufacturer of ballast water treatment systems (BWΤS) and sustainable marine equipment solutions. Our robust systems and solutions ensure worldwide compliance, provide operational simplicity and reduce operational expenditure. 
ERMA FIRST's customer-centric approach offers flexible and convenient servicing through a trusted network of certified engineers worldwide. ERMA FIRST provides sales, maintenance and training to clients via a network of offices in 46 countries. 
ERMA FIRST offers a complete range of ballast water treatment solutions (BWTS), holding USCG & IMO Type Approvals. In addition, ERMA FIRST is an experienced manufacturer of pioneering sustainable marine equipment solutions. 
ERMA FIRST won the Lloyd’s List Technical Achievement Award (2013), the GREEN4SEA Technology Award (2016) and GREEN4SEA Sustainability Award (2023). 

Image: Dimitris Tsoulos, BLUE CONNECT Director, ERMA FIRST

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