Posidonia 2026 set a new benchmark for the global maritime industry, bringing together the world's leading shipping stakeholders at a pivotal moment for international trade. Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty, evolving decarbonisation regulations, digital transformation and mounting pressures on global supply chains, the exhibition provided a unique platform for dialogue, collaboration and deal-making.

Reflecting the significance of the event, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, who participated at Posidonia and addressed the opening ceremony, highlighted the exhibition's unique role in fostering industry engagement.

"Posidonia is a shipping exhibition that has become a maritime institution," said Dominguez. "Engagement and dialogue are the basis for the business of global shipping. Honest and open conversations and trust-building are central to negotiations at IMO, to reach consensus, built on understanding of everyone's perspectives."

Those conversations unfolded throughout the week across conference halls, exhibition stands and networking events, as shipowners, regulators, policymakers and technology providers examined the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of shipping. At the same time, the exhibition floor was transformed into a hub of commercial activity, with exhibitors announcing strategic partnerships, signing memoranda of understanding and unveiling major investment initiatives.

Among the landmark agreements announced during Posidonia 2026 were a series of strategic collaborations and commercial transactions that underscored the industry's commitment to innovation, sustainability, digital transformation and industrial growth.

Highlights included a Memorandum of Understanding between Skaramangas Shipyards and Hyundai Heavy Industries aimed at strengthening Greece's shipbuilding capabilities and exploring opportunities in naval and commercial vessel construction. The exhibition also witnessed one of the year's most significant shipbuilding transactions, with Greek shipowner Dynacom advancing a major VLCC newbuilding programme at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding.

Further reinforcing the momentum behind the revitalisation of Greek shipbuilding, ONEX Shipyards and Antipollution signed an agreement for the construction of four advanced anti-pollution vessels at Elefsis Shipyards, with options for additional units. ONEX also announced a strategic cooperation agreement with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges to strengthen connectivity between Greece and Northern Europe through the development of a new "Blue Corridor."

ABS and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries also signed a joint development agreement to design a U.S.-flagged 50,000 DWT oil and chemical tanker compliant with ABS Rules and U.S. Coast Guard requirements.

Environmental compliance and digitalisation featured prominently among the business announcements, with StormGeo and OceanScore unveiling a collaboration designed to help shipowners navigate increasingly complex emissions regulations. Meanwhile, Samsung Heavy Industries, Lloyd's Register and Capital Clean Energy Carriers revealed plans to jointly explore floating data centre solutions, highlighting how maritime expertise can support emerging digital infrastructure requirements. A separate agreement between Lloyd's Register Advisory and Samsung Heavy Industries will further advance the commercialisation of the concept.

Commenting on the breadth of commercial activity generated during the exhibition, Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A., said: "Collectively, the agreements announced during Posidonia 2026 reflected the industry's determination to invest in future-ready fleets, sustainable operations, advanced technologies and resilient infrastructure. From major shipbuilding contracts and environmental initiatives to pioneering digital projects and logistics partnerships, the exhibition once again demonstrated its role as a premier global platform for maritime business, innovation and international collaboration."

Beyond the business deals and announcements, Posidonia 2026 delivered unprecedented levels of participation and engagement. Over 35,000 visitors passed through the halls of the Athens Metropolitan Expo over the course of the week, generating over €100 million in economic activity for the Attica region and reinforcing the exhibition's importance not only to the maritime sector but also to the wider Greek economy.

The international nature of the event was reflected in the feedback received from government representatives, industry executives and maritime stakeholders from around the world.

"Posidonia has always been much more than an exhibition," said Marina Hadjimanolis, Cyprus Shipping Minister. "It has long been one of the most important meeting points for the global maritime community."

Murali Pillai, Singapore's Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport, described Posidonia 2026 as "an invaluable opportunity to meet old friends and other key maritime players to exchange perspectives on the future of international shipping."

Industry participants echoed similar sentiments. George Marinakis, Managing Director of MT Innovative Solutions S.A. (MTIS), said the exhibition confirmed that the future of shipping will be shaped by organisations capable of combining strong partnerships, operational excellence and intelligent use of technology, while Konstantinos Antoniadis, CEO and Co-founder of EMICERT, noted that the event exceeded expectations and provided a valuable platform for dialogue on the future of shipping and sustainability.

For Orestis Schinas, Co-Founder and Academic Lead of HHX.blue, the quality of discussions surrounding finance, decarbonisation, digitalisation and competitiveness demonstrated why Posidonia remains one of the industry's most influential gatherings and a catalyst for new business opportunities.

While attendance surpassed every previous edition, the record-breaking numbers also highlighted the need for continued investment in infrastructure capable of supporting events of this scale. Posidonia 2028 will be the 30th edition of the world’s most prestigious shipping trade event and will take place from 5-9 June at the same venue.

"Each edition of Posidonia raises the bar even higher - not only for the exhibition itself, which is widely recognised as the world's premier maritime gathering - but also for Greece's overall profile as a destination for international conferences and exhibitions," said Vokos.

He added: "As Posidonia continues to grow, so do the infrastructure requirements needed to support it. Adapting to these evolving needs is essential - not for the reputation of Posidonia, which is already firmly established - but for strengthening Greece's standing as a world-class destination capable of hosting events of the highest international standard."

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

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Capital Clean Energy Carriers Corp. (NASDAQ: CCEC), proceeded to the formation of a joint venture company with CMA CGM S.A. Each party will hold a 50% ownership stake in the Joint Venture, which has been established for the purpose of constructing, chartering, and operating one 20,000 cbm dual-fuel LNG bunkering vessel. The Joint Venture marks CCEC’s entry into the LNG bunkering segment, the Company’s first vessel dedicated to marine fuel supply.
In connection with this transaction, the Joint Venture has entered into a shipbuilding contract with Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. (“CIMC SOE”) for the construction of the vessel at a contract price of $82.8 million, with delivery expected in the third quarter of 2028.
Incorporating the latest technologies, the vessel is designed to enable safe and reliable LNG transfers across a wide range of operating conditions. Advanced emissions reduction systems, combined with highly efficient dual-fuel power generation, are designed to help the vessel meet applicable environmental standards of the global shipping industry.
In addition, the Joint Venture is expected to enter into a 12-year time charter with a joint venture company formed between CMA CGM S.A. and TotalEnergies S.A., commencing upon delivery of the vessel from the shipyard.
Jerry Kalogiratos, CEO of Capital Clean Energy Carriers, commented: “This joint venture marks CCEC’s entry into LNG bunkering — a natural extension of our gas platform from carriage into marine fuel supply. Working alongside counterparties of the calibre of CMA CGM and TotalEnergies, we can help build the infrastructure that allows LNG to deliver a cleaner emissions profile, alongside security and diversity of supply, while opening a new, long-term contracted revenue stream for the Company through the Joint Venture.”
Christine Cabau, Executive Vice President Operations and Assets of CMA CGM S.A., said: “Together with Capital Clean Energy Carriers and TotalEnergies, we are committed to building a reliable and high-performance LNG bunkering supply chain, which is essential to ensuring the availability and reliability of fuels such as LNG that represent the first step in the decarbonization of our industry.”
About Capital Clean Energy Carriers Corp. 
Capital Clean Energy Carriers Corp. (NASDAQ: CCEC), an international shipping company, is a leading platform of gas carriage solutions with a focus on energy transition. CCEC’s in-the-water fleet includes 17 high specification vessels, including 13 latest generation LNG/Cs, one legacy Neo-Panamax container vessel, one dual-fuel medium gas carrier and two handy LCO2/multi-gas carriers. In addition, CCEC’s under-construction fleet includes eight additional latest generation LNG/Cs, five dual-fuel medium gas carriers, two handy LCO2/multi-gas carriers and one LNG DF Bunkering vessel to be delivered between the second quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2029.

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LALIZAS kicked off the Posidonia 2026 week by hosting the Ship Chandlers & Service Providers Summit 2026 at its new facilities in the heart of Piraeus. While LALIZAS hosted this event in the past, 2026 marked the first time it was held at the headquarters, the LALIZAS Port - welcoming guests from Azerbaijan, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Greece, India, UK, Lithuania, Malta, Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, United States, and Venezuela, highlighting the truly international nature of the LALIZAS network. It was the perfect curtain-raiser for what was about to follow.

Posidonia 2026 exceeded every expectation, proving to be the largest edition in the event's history, with more than 2,220 exhibitors from 83 countries gathering at the Athens Metropolitan Expo - and #thelalizasforce delivered one of its strongest performances to date.

From day 1, LALIZAS’ agenda was packed with meetings with executives and decision-makers from leading companies in the global shipping industry. From long-standing partners to new faces exploring LALIZAS for the first time, the level of engagement was outstanding. Conversations ranged from the llifesaving and firefighting equipment to the full range of FSR and F&I services - and the enthusiasm from every visitor who walked through LALIZAS’ stand was a true testament to where the industry is heading.

Thursday evening was, as always, the company’s much-anticipated gathering. The atmosphere at the  stand was vibrant, and the night went well beyond what any of us expected. Partners, customers, and friends from across the globe came together for an evening of meaningful connections that once again proved to be one of the highlights of the exhibition.

Once again, LALIZAS’ team welcomed groups of young professionals as well as Merchant Marine Academy cadets through the YES Forum to the stand. Engaging with tomorrow's industry leaders is something the company genuinely values - and their enthusiasm for maritime safety and the world of LALIZAS never fails to inspire us.

Having roots in sailing, LALIZAS has always believed that a healthy mind and a healthy body are the key to productivity. True to that spirit, our teams competed across every athletic event Posidonia had to offer - the Posidonia Cup, where also Mr. Lalizas himself took part, was an unforgettable experience for all involved. The 3x3 Basketball, the Cycling, and the Running Event completed a weekend where the LALIZAS spirit was felt on and off the field.

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The 5th Trading in U.S. Waters Seminar: U.S. and Greek Approaches to Today’s Maritime Challenges, took place on Thursday, June 4, 2026 – during Posidonia Week – reaffirmed its position as an important maritime industry gathering, attracting an exceptionally large number of participants from the Greek and the global shipping community.

The American – Hellenic Chamber of Commerce proudly organize this seminar, every two years-during Posidonia, along with the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA), in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Athens, and with the support of the International Propeller Club and the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping.

By bringing together shipowners, operators, maritime service providers, industry stakeholders and representatives from the governmental and diplomatic community, this event served as a key platform for discussing the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities shaping the shipping sector.

The Shark Tank Event – a SHIPPINGInsight initiative – which was successfully launched during Posidonia 2022 to introduce innovative U.S. technologies to the Posidonia audience, was once again integrated into this year’s seminar agenda, further strengthening its role as a dynamic and interactive highlight of the program and an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their work and receive instant feedback.

Opening Remarks session

Elias Spirtounias | Executive Director, American – Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, John D. Saracakis | President, American – Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, Seminar Moderator: Carleen Lyden Walker, Co-Founder/CEO, North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA), Chief Evolution Officer, SHIPPINGInsight and Fmr. IMO Maritime Ambassador, Yuri Arthur | Commercial Counselor, U.S. Embassy, Athens, Joe Hughes | Chairman, NAMEPA, Board Member, American P&I Club and Costis Frangoulis |President, International Propeller Club

The 5th Trading in U.S. Waters Seminar opened with a discussion among representatives of the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Embassy in Athens, NAMEPA, and the International Propeller Club, who shared their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the maritime industry.  Looking ahead, speakers reflected on how innovation, digitalization, and stronger partnerships will continue to shape the maritime sector in the years to come, setting the stage for a day of insightful discussions on the future of global shipping.

Discussion: Trading Smart in U.S. Waters: Compliance, Cost and Competitive Edge

Matthew Thomas | Partner, International Trade Maritime, Blank Rome Law Firm, Dana Merkel  | Partner, Maritime, Blank Rome Law Firm, Seminar Moderator: Carleen Lyden Walker, Sydney Plante | Acting Associate Administrator for Strategic Engagement at the Maritime Administration (MARAD), U.S. Department of Transportation, Aristidis Kourkoumelis | Assistant Secretary, Trade & Economic Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The first discussion examined the evolving regulatory and operational landscape facing companies trading in U.S. waters.  The discussion provided valuable insights into how shipping companies can successfully navigate a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape while maintaining operational resilience and competitive advantage.

Session 1: Safeguarding Global Trade Amid Geopolitical Risk

Thanos Dokos | National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister, Daniel Tadros | Chief Operating Officer, The American P&I Club, Robert Obayda | Chief of Staff to the CEO, Davie Shipbuilding and Former Director of Maritime Industrial Policy, White House National Security Council, Stratos Desypris | Chief Operating Officer, Navios Maritime Partners L.P. and Mariniki Psifia | ALBA Visiting Faculty – Economist, Head Shipping Market Analyst, Latsco Marine Management

The session explored the increasingly close relationship between maritime security, energy security, economic resilience, and national security.  A key takeaway was that resilience can no longer be viewed solely through an operational lens. In today’s environment, it requires strategic planning, international collaboration, and the ability to adapt to evolving geopolitical and market realities.

Session 2: Navigating the Future: AI in Global Shipping

Joshua Divin | Senior Vice President, Marine Business Development, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Maria Kolitsida | Founder and CEO, Signal Fusion and George Kokosalakis | Executive Director, Center of Excellence in Shipping, Logistics & Energy, Associate Professor, School of Business and Economics, Deree

In this session the speakers elucidated on how artificial intelligence is moving from experimentation to practical application across the maritime industry. A key takeaway from the discussion was that the success of AI will not be determined solely by technological capability, but by the industry’s ability to integrate these solutions in ways that support people, strengthen decision-making, and deliver tangible business outcomes.

Session 3: Optimizing Energy in Shipping: Technologies, Efficiency, and the Path Ahead

Sydney Plante | Acting Associate Administrator for Strategic Engagement at the Maritime Administration (MARAD), U.S. Department of Transportation, The Honorable Sang H. Yi | President and CEO, American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), Themis Vagiakos  | Director, Global Sustainability, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Cynthia Hudson | President, Shoreline Hudson, Kirk Kaiser | Chief Technical Officer, Airglide AI

This part of the seminar asked one of the most important questions facing the maritime industry today: how to advance the energy transition while maintaining competitiveness, efficiency, and operational resilience.  The discussion underscored both the progress already being made and the work that remains ahead as the maritime industry navigates a responsible and sustainable path toward its future.

The keynote address by Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, highlighted the strategic role of shipping in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.  The address served as a timely reminder that shipping remains not only a pillar of the Greek economy, but also a critical component of global stability and growth.

Discussion: Strategic Collaboration Agreement

Panos Xenokostas | Founder & President, ONEX Shipyards & Technologies Group, President, Hellenic Shipyards Association and Georgios Plevrakis | Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Hanwha

The discussion between ONEX Shipyards & Technologies Group and Hanwha highlighted the growing strategic importance of international industrial partnerships in the maritime sector.  Speakers explored how collaboration between leading organizations can support the modernization of shipbuilding capabilities, drive innovation, and create long-term value.

SHIPPINGInsight’s SHARK TANK: A Competition of Innovative U.S. Maritime Technologies

The Sharks and the Presenting U.S. Firms

The Sharks:  Marina Hadjipateras | Founder and General Partner, TMV, Semiramis Paliou | CEO, Diana Shipping Inc., Kimberly Guilfoyle | U.S. Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic, U.S. Embassy Athens, Danae Bezantakou | 1st Vice President, The International Propeller Club, Port of Piraeus & CEO, Navigator Shipping Consultants, Stephen Schueler | Managing Director, European Maritime Finance, Chairman, Enerjen Capital, George Alexandratos | President, Hellenic Chamber of Shipping

The Presenting U.S. Firms: Miles Keeney-Ritchie | Founder and CEO, Aloft Systems, Anastasija Kuprijanova | Director of Business Development, Carbon Ridge, Sidney McLaurin | Founder and CEO, Fleet Robotics, Hans Olson | Director of Business Development, Quartermaster AI, Sean Simons | CCO & Co-Founder, Robot Toolworx and Matthew Ezekiel Riley | CEO and Co-Founder, Sidonia

One of the highlights of the 5th Trading in U.S. Waters Seminar was the return of the SHIPPINGInsight Shark Tank, bringing together innovative U.S. maritime technology companies and a distinguished panel of industry leaders to explore the future of shipping.  The session featured the participation of U.S. Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic Kimberly Guilfoyle, alongside leading representatives from the Greek and international maritime community, who evaluated innovative solutions addressing key industry challenges related to efficiency, sustainability, automation, safety, and operational performance.  By connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and maritime executives, the Shark Tank showcased the important role that innovation and cross-sector collaboration play in advancing the maritime industry. The discussion highlighted how emerging technologies are helping shape a more competitive, resilient, and sustainable future for global shipping.  The future of maritime innovation is being driven not only by established industry leaders, but also by the next generation of companies bringing new ideas and technologies to the market.

U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle offered the Shark Tank competition award to Anastasija Kuprijanova of Carbon Ridge, a United States based developer of carbon capture & storage solutions for the Maritime industry, for the Onboard Carbon Capture & Storage (“OCCS”) solution provides a lowcost and near-term solution to significantly reduce the intensity of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) onboard large maritime vessels.

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Antipollution, a member of V Group, and ONEX Shipyards & Technologies (ONEX) have signed a letter of intent covering the construction of up to eight marine pollution reception and oil recovery vessels to be built to ABS Class in Greece.

The project covers four vessels plus four options and marks a significant step for Greek shipbuilding while advancing environmental services for the country's maritime sector. To be constructed by ONEX, which is reviving shipyards in Elefsis and Syros, the vessels underscore growing investment in specialized vessels built in Greece for service in Greece.

“ABS is proud to support this milestone for Greek shipbuilding and for the environmental performance of the maritime industry in Greece. These vessels address a real operational need in Greek ports while demonstrating that environmental performance and domestic shipbuilding capability can advance together,” said Vassilios Kroustallis, Executive Vice President, Business Development and Chief Commercial Officer, ABS.

The vessels will collect liquid and solid waste from commercial ships in port and transport it to Antipollution's onshore facility, where it will be processed and converted into solid fuel, supporting a more circular approach to maritime waste management.

“This investment reflects our long-term commitment to strengthening the environmental infrastructure that supports shipping in Greece. We are particularly proud that these vessels will be built in Greece, combining environmental innovation with domestic shipbuilding expertise. Projects like this demonstrate how sustainable development, industrial growth and environmental responsibility can advance together,” said Vyron Vasileiadis, Chairman and CEO of V Group.

“This agreement with Antipollution highlights the capabilities of modern Greek shipyards. At ONEX, we are expanding our horizon — combining world-class repair services with the construction of next-generation vessels built to the highest international standards. These eco vessels open a new chapter in our newbuilding portfolio and stand as clear evidence that Greece has the industrial power, the expertise, and the vision to lead in specialized shipbuilding. We are proud to champion a project where environmental responsibility and real industrial growth advance together. Built in Greece, designed for the future, and ready for the world,” stated Panos Xenokostas, President & CEO, ONEX Shipyards & Technologies Group and President of the Hellenic Shipyards Association.

ABS will support the project through its classification services, helping advance safety, reliability and operational performance from design through construction. Learn more about the industry-leading classification services at ABS here.

Photo Caption (L to R): Vasilis Kikilias, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy of Greece; Panos Xenokostas, President & CEO of ONEX Shipyards & Technologies; Vyron Vasileiadis, Chairman & CEO of V Group; and Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Executive Vice President, Business Development and Chief Commercial Officer.

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From First Grade to the First Job

With more than 1,000 participants, the 10th Youth Day at Posidonia took place on Friday, June 5, 2026, as part of the YES to Shipping Forum 2026. This landmark anniversary event brought together students, university undergraduates and graduates, young professionals, representatives of the maritime and academic communities, government officials, and local authorities, highlighting the importance of systematically investing in the human capital of Greek shipping.

Opening remarks were delivered by Melina Travlos, President of the Union of Greek Shipowners; Vassilis Kikilias, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy; Niki Kerameus, Minister of Labour and Social Security; Domna Michailidou, Minister of Social Cohesion and Family; George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping; Yiannis Moralis, Mayor of Piraeus; and Michalis Sfakianakis, Rector of the University of Piraeus.

The event featured 36 speakers representing the full spectrum of the maritime ecosystem. Among the distinguished guests were Theodore Veniamis, former President of the Union of Greek Shipowners and Chairman of Golden Union; John Lyras, former President of ECSA and Chairman of Paralos Maritime Corporation S.A.; and Evina Fotiadou, Director of Maritime Policy and Communications at ECSA.

International Dialogue and the YES Forum Survey

A highlight of the event was the first international youth discussion on shipping, bringing together representatives from 12 countries and marking a new chapter in the internationalization of the YES Forum and the global dialogue on the future of shipping.

During the event, the first global YES Forum survey was also presented. The findings revealed that young people’s interest in shipping remains strong worldwide, while the primary challenge is not a lack of interest but rather access to information and opportunities.

The study found that:

In developed maritime nations, young people are primarily attracted to shipping because of their passion for the sea and ships.

In developing economies, financial incentives and career advancement opportunities are the main drivers.

Greece combines both factors, with young people recognizing both the sector’s professional opportunities (62%) and its connection to the country’s maritime heritage (60%).

Furthermore, countries that systematically integrate maritime education into their educational systems, such as the Philippines and Ethiopia, demonstrate higher levels of youth interest in the maritime sector, particularly in seafaring careers.

This finding is especially significant for Greece, where the Maritime Studies course developed by the YES Forum has been taught in public and private schools since September 2025. Measurable results are expected to emerge in the near future.

At the same time, the YES Forum’s awareness, education, mentoring, and career networking initiatives engage students from the first grade of primary school through to university graduates. Through the book Towards the Sea, which serves as a key educational tool within the Maritime Studies curriculum, thousands of children across Greece have been introduced to the nation’s maritime heritage and the modern career opportunities offered by the shipping industry.

Key Findings for Greece

Despite the strong interest in the sector, 42% of young people perceive entering the industry as difficult or believe they lack the required skills.

At the same time, employers hold a different view. In fact, 63.8% of employers evaluate newcomers to the shipping industry positively, emphasizing that the most important qualities in candidates are communication skills, adaptability, and professional ethics.

The challenge, therefore, is not the quality of young talent, but ensuring timely and effective access to information and opportunities.

Greece’s success in connecting young people with the maritime sector is undeniable, and the YES Forum has played a significant role in this achievement through the initiatives it has implemented since 2014.

Specifically:

51% participation in Career Fairs (compared to 17% globally), with more than 1,500 interviews conducted annually, approximately 40 participating companies, and an average of 150 participants at each YES Forum Career Fair.

47% participation in Open Days (compared to 8% internationally), with the YES Forum having organized more than 130 Open Days to date.

31% participation in mentoring programmes (compared to 20% globally), resulting in the creation of 175 mentoring pairs through the YES Forum.

These figures confirm that sustained engagement between young people and the shipping industry delivers tangible results.

The full survey results can be accessed here.

The executive summary of the survey can be found here.

Statement by Danae Bezantakou

Danae Bezantakou, Founder of the YES Forum and CEO of Navigator Shipping Consultants, stated:

"The most significant achievement of the YES Forum has been the creation of a consistent and meaningful dialogue between the business and academic communities, institutional stakeholders, and the younger generation, initially at a national level and now increasingly at an international one. Through this dialogue, shipping becomes more accessible, more understandable, and more open to young people, while also highlighting the importance of international cooperation in shaping discussions about the next generation and the future of our industry."

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To mark World Ocean Day, MSC Foundation and MSC Cruises launched the Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation, a new onboard programme designed to help children and families better understand, celebrate and care for the ocean through experiences that combine learning, creativity and participation. The programme is expected to engage thousands of children from around the world each year, helping nurture the next generation of ocean ambassadors.

Developed by MSC Foundation together with MSC Cruises’ Entertainment team, Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation is progressively rolling out across the MSC Cruises fleet, transforming every cruise into an opportunity to connect younger generations with marine conservation. The programme draws on the MSC Foundation’s years of collaboration with conservation and education partners, combining lessons from its restoration work at Ocean Cay in The Bahamas with the expertise of organisations such as Mission Blue and Marevivo to create immersive, age-appropriate experiences. It also reflects the growing role of MSC Cruises’ global Entertainment team as a hub for the creation and production of original family experiences at sea.

“Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation reflects our belief that education is fundamental to long-term ocean conservation,” said Daniela Picco, Executive Director of MSC Foundation. “We believe that if you know the sea, you protect it — everything starts from there. By helping children and families build a deeper connection with the ocean, we hope to foster curiosity, responsibility and a lifelong commitment to caring for the marine world.”

Designed around three pillars – celebrating the ocean on every cruise, placing children and families at the centre of the experience, and fostering ocean literacy. Children aged 3 to 17 will be invited to take part in a range of interactive experiences including “Everybody loves the Sea”, an original song developed with a children’s choir, alongside games and quizzes, creative workshops, drawing activities and conservation challenges. Guests will also be encouraged to make personal pledges to protect the ocean through the “My Wish for the Ocean” initiative and receive an Ocean Ambassador Passport filled with practical actions they can continue at home. The experience culminates in a celebratory parade featuring children’s participation and music designed to reinforce positive environmental messages in

a fun and memorable way.

“Through Oceans Day, MSC Cruises is proud to help bring MSC Foundation’s ocean education mission to life onboard, creating meaningful shared experiences that encourage children to better understand and care for the ocean,” said Matteo Mancini, Family Entertainment Development Director at MSC Cruises.

Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation will be progressively rolled out across the MSC Cruises fleet, helping bring greater awareness of ocean conservation to children and families.

On ships featuring an MSC Foundation Centre, Foundation representatives will also take part in activities, helping deepen children’s connection with the ocean. The programme will continue to evolve over time, with new experiences introduced to keep it engaging, relevant and impactful for future generations.

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Over 35,000 Visitors and 2,200 Exhibitors Set New Exhibition Records

The 29th edition of the biennial Posidonia Exhibition closed at the Athens Metropolitan Expo, cementing its position as the world’s premier maritime business platform and the essential forum for setting the policy agenda of an industry that moves 87% of global trade.

Against a backdrop of unprecedented geopolitical and regulatory pressure - from the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, protectionist trade policies to the accelerating and controversial IMO 2030/2050 decarbonisation timeline – this year’s event proved that the global shipping community looks to Greek shipping not merely to conduct business, but to find its compass and achieve consensus.

The highly anticipated Press Conference of the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS), held within the framework of Posidonia 2026, brought the proceedings of the global gathering of the shipping community in Greece to a close.

In a packed room, with strong attendance by representatives of Greek and international media, the President of the Union of Greek Shipowners, Melina Travlos, answered questions covering the full spectrum of the shipping industry at national, European and international level.

The transition to zero-emission shipping was prominent in the agenda across all five days, with the 2026 edition marking the first Posidonia held entirely within the European Union’s Emissions Trading System for shipping - a regulatory reality that has fundamentally altered the economics of vessel operation for European-flagged and European-calling fleets.

More than any previous edition, Posidonia 2026 convened against a geopolitical landscape that placed shipping squarely at the intersection of global commerce, security and sovereignty. With seafarer lives increasingly at harms way, supply chains strained, trade routes under threat and tariff regimes in flux, the exhibition floor became an arena not merely of commerce but of a strategic recalibration.

The might of the Greek shipowners and the potential of Greece’s ship building sector were showcased during Posidonia week with a flurry of new business deals. George Prokopiou’s Dynacom Tankers led the charge with a $1.47bn order for 12 VLCCs at China’s Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding. Hengli Heavy Industries announced a $2.2bn package spanning 21 firm orders plus four options across six international shipowners, covering container ships, kamsarmax and capesize bulk carriers, LR2 product tankers and suezmax crude tankers - with Greek owners prominently represented across multiple vessel types, including Venergy Maritime’s suezmax newbuilds. Also, ONEX Shipyards signed a 4+4 design-and-construction contract with V Group’s Antipollution for eco-friendly vessels to be built entirely in Greece at Elefsina and Syros.

Theodore Vokos, Managing Director, Posidonia Exhibitions S.A., said: “As in every edition, Posidonia 2026 served as the preferred venue for the maritime industry’s most significant commercial announcements, with major transactions concluded across newbuilding orders, technology partnerships, classification agreements and fuel transition initiatives.”

The 2026 edition distinguished itself with an unprecedented concentration of senior government and intergovernmental participation, reflecting the growing recognition among global leaders that shipping policy is inseparable from foreign policy, energy transition and economic sovereignty.

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

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The highly anticipated Press Conference of the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS), held within the framework of Posidonia 2026, brought the proceedings of the global gathering of the shipping community in Greece to a close.

In a packed room, with strong attendance by representatives of Greek and international media, the President of the Union of Greek Shipowners, Melina Travlos, answered questions covering the full spectrum of the shipping industry at national, European and international level.

Responding to a journalist’s reference to the largest orderbook of Greek shipping in 25 years, comprising 931 vessels, Ms Travlos stated that “we are leading fleet renewal and environmental performance.”

On decarbonisation, the President of the UGS argued that shipping had been “dragged” into unattainable targets set by the EU, which distorted the IMO’s 2050 objectives. With regard to the Net Zero framework, she described it as a “revenue-collection mechanism for the IMO”, with funds to be directed towards purposes unrelated to shipping. She also noted that Greece abstained from the October 2025 vote on the regulation in question. She further stressed that global, rather than regional, measures are essential.

On the shadow fleet, the President of the UGS highlighted, through specific arguments and data, the unfair targeting of Greek shipping. Sanctions without global reach “inevitably distort competition,” Ms Travlos said.

On freedom of navigation, she described the instrumentalisation of vessels in conflict zones as an existential threat and reiterated the critical importance of safeguarding it, as she had also done before at the Security Council of the United Nations.

Responding to a relevant question, the President of the Union of Greek Shipowners placed particular emphasis on the UGS’s social welfare contribution, noting that education and the new generation have consistently been at the core of its work. Announcing the most expanded scholarship programme in the country, which this year amounts to 365 scholarships — one scholarship every day — she sent a strong message of empowering the new generation, every day.

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A historic day for Greek shipping and the capital market was marked by the commencement of trading of the shares of Safe Bulkers Inc., on the Athens Stock Exchange, becoming the first shipping company to be listed on the Greek market.

The company, which has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) since 2008, has a fleet of 45 dry bulk carriers and a program of 11 newly built environmentally advanced vessels, including methanol dual-fuel plants, initiated parallel trading of its shares on Euronext Athens.

The event was attended by representatives of the government, the shipping community and the capital market, including the Minister of National Economy and Finance, Mr. Kostis Hatzidakis, the CEO, CEO of Safe Bulkers, Mr. Polys V. Hadjioannou, Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis, Deputy Minister of Shipping of the Republic of Cyprus, the CEO of the Athens Exchange Group, Mr. Yiannos Kontopoulos, and the President of the Hellenic Capital Market Commission, Vasiliki Lazarakou.

Mr. Hatzidakis described the day as particularly important for both the Greek economy and shipping, stressing that the introduction of Safe Bulkers inaugurates a new era in shipping relations with the Athens Stock Exchange and expressing the belief that other shipping companies will follow the same step.
For his part, Mr. Hadjioannou, confirming the commitment of Safe Bulkers Inc. to the development, transparency and further strengthening of its presence in the Greek and international shipping market, stated: "This is an important milestone for Safe Bulkers, for the shipping community in general and for Athens, as it evolves into an increasingly important international financial and shipping center. Our company has the opportunity to gain access to a broad base of European institutional investors, contributing to the transformation of Athens into a leading international hub for shipping finance within the Euronext platform."

Warm congratulations to all those who contributed to this important development for shipping and the Greek capital market as this move strengthens Safe Bulkers Inc.'s access to European capital markets and both broadens its investor base, while at the same time it is a vote of confidence in the prospects of the Greek and European capital market.

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