The Marine Technical Managers Association (MARTECMA) hosted its traditional New Year Pita Cutting ceremony, an event that brought together the elite of the Greek shipping community to celebrate industry milestones and look toward the challenges of 2026.

The evening commenced with a welcome address by Panos Kourkountis, Chairman of MARTECMA. Kourkountis highlighted the Association’s pivotal role in fostering technical excellence and reflected on the significant activities undertaken over the past year. He emphasized that MARTECMA remains a cornerstone for collaboration as the industry navigates a rapidly evolving regulatory and technological landscape.

Underscoring the international influence of Greek shipping, the event featured addresses by the Ambassadors of Japan, the People’s Republic of China, and the Republic of Korea. The diplomats collectively expressed their gratitude to Greek shipowners and technical managers for their long-standing trust. They reaffirmed their nations' commitment to supporting the Greek fleet, particularly through ongoing partnerships in the shipbuilding and new construction sectors.

Commitment to Education: The 2026 Benevolence Grants

In a demonstration of the Association’s commitment to the next generation of maritime professionals, MARTECMA announced its Benevolence Grants for 2026. The announcements were led by the Association’s leadership:

• • Antonis Georgantzis (Vice President A’): Announced a significant donation to the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) to support academic excellence in naval architecture and engineering.
• • Fotis Belexis (Vice President B’): Announced a donation to the Nautical Academy of Kalymnos, aimed at bolstering vocational training for future seafarers.

Lifetime Achievement: Honoring Stefanos Tsonakis

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of an Honorary Membership and a Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Stefanos Tsonakis of Eastern Mediterranean Maritime (Eastmed).

The award was presented by Dean Tseretopoulos, who delivered a moving tribute to Tsonakis’s distinguished 44-year career. Recognized as a pillar of the technical community, Tsonakis was lauded for his exemplary service as a Technical Director and his enduring contributions to the standards of Greek ship management.

The event concluded with the traditional cutting of the Vasilopita, symbolizing a prosperous and technologically innovative year ahead for all members and the global maritime industry.

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With an ambitious newbuilding project currently in development involving 20 new vessels across almost all categories NYSE listed company Tsakos Energy Navigation held the Naming and Delivery Ceremony of the MR Product oil/Chemical tanker H.N. 1521 – M/T “DELOS T” and the Naming Ceremony of our H.N.1522 - MT "DION", which took place on January 12th, 2026.

The vessels' sponsors were:

M/T "DELOS T": Ms. Corina Lazarou, P.A. to Dr. Nikolas P. Tsakos, TEN Ltd.

M/T "DION": Ms. Elina Papageorgiou, President Greece and Cyprus, Lloyd's Register of Shipping.

Both vessels were constructed at Jiangsu Shipbuilding Group, incorporating the latest design innovations, the highest environmental standards, and advanced technical specifications to meet the highest operational requirements of our charterers. As part of a broader strategic newbuilding programme, these additions underscore the Tsakos Group’s continued commitment to sustainable growth, strategic fleet renewal, and the continuous enhancement of the environmental performance.

The vessels will sail under the Marshall Islands Flag and are classed with Lloyd’s Register.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the newbuilding team and all supporting teams whose dedication, expertise, and hard work were instrumental in the successful and timely completion of this project. To the Master, Chief Engineer, Officers, and Crew of M/T “DELOS T”, we wish safe, smooth, and prosperous voyages—always with calm seas.

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METLEN and the Tsakos Group have signed a strategic partnership for the development, construction, operation (energy management), and commercial management of one of Greece’s largest hybrid power generation projects.

Under the agreement, METLEN will participate in a joint venture (SPV) with the Tsakos Group (Tsakos Group 60% – METLEN 40%) to develop and operate a hybrid power plant from Renewable Energy Sources (RES) with integrated energy storage system consisting of a 251.9 MW photovoltaic park and an energy storage system with an expected capacity of 375 MWh, located in Central Greece. Implementation of the investment is expected to commence in 2026, with completion targeted for early 2028.

METLEN, through this investment, a) strengthens its strategic positioning in next-generation renewable energy by acquiring an equity stake, b) undertakes the construction, and c) integrates the management of the plant’s commercial operations - a landmark project for Greece that combines large-scale energy generation and storage - into the company’s Energy Management.

Strategic partnerships, such as the one with the Tsakos Group, alongside METLEN’s extensive international experience in delivering complex hybrid projects, strengthen the company’s position at the forefront of Greece’s energy transition and its role in shaping the Utility of tomorrow.

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Safe Bulkers, Inc. has entered into an agreement for the acquisition of two newbuild, 82,500 dwt, dry-bulk, Chinese, Kamsarmax class vessels, with scheduled delivery dates in the third quarter of 2028 and the first quarter of 2029.

The newbuild vessels are designed to meet the Phase 3 requirements of the Energy Efficiency Design Index related to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (“IMO GHG -EEDI Phase 3”) as adopted by the International Maritime Organization, (“IMO”) and also comply with the latest NOx emissions regulation, NOx-Tier III (“NOx-Tier III”). The newbuild vessels are sister to existing vessels in our fleet with advanced energy efficiency characteristics resulting in lower fuel consumption. 

The Company has already taken delivery of twelve IMO GHG Phase 3 – NOx Tier III vessels. Including this agreement, the Company has an outstanding orderbook of eight newbuild vessels, two of which are methanol dual fuel, with scheduled deliveries four in 2026, two in 2027, one in 2028 and one in 2029.

Dr. Loukas Barmparis, President of the Company commented: “We have placed these newbuild orders consistent with our fleet renewal strategy, aiming to increase the competitiveness and resiliency of the Company and to own one of the most modern and environmentally efficient dry bulk fleets in the market.”

About Safe Bulkers, Inc.

The Company is an international provider of marine dry-bulk transportation services, transporting bulk cargoes, particularly grain, coal and iron ore, along worldwide shipping routes for some of the world’s largest users of marine dry-bulk transportation services. The Company’s common stock, series C preferred stock and series D preferred stock are listed on the NYSE, and trade under the symbols “SB”, “SB.PR.C”, and “SB.PR.D”, respectively.

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The Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre (MERC) has appointed Nikos Kakalis as its new Managing Director. 

Kakalis, who currently serves as Lloyd’s Register’s Global Bulk Carriers Segment Director, succeeds Stelios Korkodilos in leading the Athens-based non-profit industry collaboration. 

The MERC was co-established by the Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub and leading shipowners Capital Group, Navios Maritime Partners, Neda Maritime Agency, Star Bulk and Thenamaris (Ships Management) Inc., with enabling support from Lloyd’s Register.  

The centre is focused on accelerating the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of the global shipping fleet by identifying, validating and promoting technology and operational solutions that can deliver efficiency and scalable impact and ensure existing vessels contribute to global decarbonisation efforts. 

Since its inception, the MERC has developed its impact strategy around several research and development pillars, including optimising hydrodynamic efficiency, benchmarking wind assisted propulsion solutions, exploring alternative auxiliary power generation, and scoping a data programme to integrate technical and commercial use of performance data to drive emissions reduction optimisation and benefit sharing. 

As managing director, Kakalis will drive the centre’s strategy, develop further its network of industry partners, and align its programmes with emerging regulatory and market developments shaping the energy transition.  

Nikos Kakalis said: “Decarbonising the existing fleet is the defining challenge facing the maritime industry.  

“The MERC provides a unique platform to bring together owners, operators, class and technology providers to deliver solutions that work in practice. I am excited to assume this role and to build on the strong foundation established by all of our partners.” 

Kakalis brings extensive technical and commercial experience to the role. During his four years with LR, he has led the organisation’s global bulk carrier strategy, guiding shipowners through the complex landscape of new fuels, energy efficiency technologies and evolving regulation.  

Before joining LR, he held senior positions at DNV, where he managed R&D and Advisory services in the Eastern Mediterranean, and at Bureau Veritas Marine Fuel Services, where he oversaw business development across marine fuel quality and sustainability. 

Vasileios Lampropoulos, MERC Board Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, Thenamaris (Ships Management) Inc., said: “Nikos’s leadership, technical insight and experience make him exceptionally well placed to steer the MERC’s next phase of development.  

“His appointment reinforces the importance of collaboration between class, shipowners and technology partners in tackling the emissions reduction challenge head-on. The MERC is an important catalyst for real progress on maritime decarbonisation, and Nikos is perfectly positioned to lead that mission.” 

About the Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre 

The Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre (MERC) was established through the joint initiative of six founding members — Capital Group, Navios Maritime Partners, Neda Maritime Agency, Star Bulk, Thenamaris (Ships Management) Inc., and Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub. These organisations united around a common purpose: to accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the global shipping fleet. 

Each founding member brings a unique set of capabilities, perspectives, and commitments. Together, they have created a neutral, collaborative platform designed to deliver practical, scalable solutions. MERC focuses on enabling evidence-based innovation and supporting the maritime sector’s transition to a more efficient, lower-emissions future. 

About The Decarb Hub  

The Lloyd’s Register Maritime Decarbonisation Hub (commonly known as The Decarb Hub) is an independent, non-profit initiative established through a partnership between Lloyd’s Register Foundation — a global charity with a mission to engineer a safer world — and Lloyd’s Register Group, a global provider of maritime professional services with over 260 years of heritage. This partnership brings together the Foundation’s public benefit mandate and focus on societal resilience, with the Group’s deep technical expertise and trusted relationships across the maritime industry. Positioned at the intersection of these two organisations, the Hub is uniquely equipped to accelerate the safe, sustainable, and human-centric decarbonisation of global shipping — combining neutrality with influence, and research with real-world application. For more information, go to www.thedecarbhub.org  

About Lloyd’s Register 

Lloyd’s Register (LR) is a global professional services group specialising in marine and offshore engineering, technology and digital solutions. We were created more than 260 years ago as the world’s first marine classification society to improve and set standards for the safety of ships.   

Today we are a leading provider of classification and compliance services to the marine and offshore industries, helping our clients design, construct and operate their assets to accepted levels of safety and environmental compliance.   

We also provide advisory services and digital solutions, supporting fleet and voyage performance and optimisation.  Our digital solutions are relied upon by more than 30,000 vessels, following the acquisition of OneOcean in 2022 and Ocean Technologies Group in 2024.   

In the race to zero emissions, our research, advisory and technical expertise and industry-firsts are supporting a safe, sustainable maritime energy transition.   

Lloyd’s Register Group is wholly owned by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, a politically and financially independent global charity that promotes safety and education.   

For more information, go to www.lr.org    

About Lloyd’s Register Foundation 

Lloyd’s Register Foundation is an independent global charity that supports research, innovation, and education to make the world a safer place. Its mission is to use the best evidence and insight to help the global community focus on tackling the world’s most pressing safety and risk challenges. For more information, please visit www.lrfoundation.org.uk 

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On 5 January, Queensway welcomed M/T MOLTENPOWER to its fleet, its 9th vessel, delivered by Taizhou Fangzhen Shipbuilding Co. Ltd., China, an oil/chemical tanker of 8,500 dwt.

The addition of M/T MOLTENPOWER represents another milestone in Queensway’s strategic fleet development and long-term commitment to high standards of safety, performance, and operational reliability. The vessel enters service as part of the Company’s ongoing strategy to strengthen its presence with modern and efficient tonnage.

As this achievement is the result of collective effort, the company extends its sincere appreciation to the Queensway team ashore and onboard, and to all parties involved, whose professionalism and cooperation ensured the successful completion of this project.

With M/T MOLTENPOWER already at sea and trading, Queensway begins the year with renewed momentum and confidence.

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Following the delivery of m/v Hispania Graeca II on 6 January 2026, Angelakos (Hellas) S.A. took delivery of the third-in-a-series-of-eight new Kamsarmax vessels on behalf of its Principals at the Nantong Cosco KHI Ship Engineering Co., Ltd. (NACKS) shipyard in Nantong, China.

The vessel’s name is Scythia Graeca II and the baptismal ceremony was officiated by the Greek Orthodox priest, Father Jeremiah Cho.

Professor Anca Dan from École Normale Supérieure of France and researcher at the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique of France specialized in archaeology and geoarchaeology served as Godmother of m/v Scythia Graeca II.
Angelakos (Hellas) S.A. was represented by Mr. Evangelos El. Angelakos, accompanied by our Marine Manager, Capt. Georgios Lampros, and our Purchasing Manager, Mrs. Maria Makrykosta. They were joined by the company’s on-site team of naval architects, engineers, and seafarers, as well as the vessel’s Master, officers, and crew. Our Project Manager Mr. Panayiotis Makris was selected to deliver the speech of Capt. Stephanos E. Angelakos during the ceremony, in recognition of his instrumental contribution in the materialization of our current newbuilding programme.
The event was further honoured by the presence of His Excellency the Ambassador of Greece to the People’s Republic of China, Evgenios Kalpyris, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Li Xu.

Representing the shipyard’s senior management was Mr. Junji Maeda, Senior Vice President, alongside other senior executives.
Partners of Angelakos (Hellas) S.A., including makers, suppliers, and agents, were also in attendance.
Continuing the tradition of the first two vessels’ names (Gallia Graeca II and Hispania Graeca II), Scythia Graeca II was chosen to outline the ancient bonds between Greeks and Scythians.

In her speech the Godmother referring to the name of the vessel pointed out that “The encounter of these two peoples, Scythians and Greeks, shaped ancient Eurasia, where Chinese, Indian, and Iranian cultures flourished in contact with both Scythian and Greek cultures. No natural or political frontier was too strong for those who shared goods, knowledge, and technologies that advanced human civilization.”

We are delighted to welcome Scythia Graeca II under our management and extend our best wishes to her crew for calm seas and fair skies.

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Chalkis Shipyards SA has become the first shipyard in Greece to submit a Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report and to obtain a Verification Statement of the Carbon Footprint Report – No. GR007443 by the internationally recognized certification body Bureau Veritas (BV).

The inventory and quantification of greenhouse gas emissions were conducted in accordance with ISO 14064-1:2018, which specifies principles and requirements for the design, development, reporting, and verification of organizational greenhouse gas inventories.

The verification of the Carbon Footprint Report was performed by Bureau Veritas in accordance with ISO 14064-3:2019, ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of reported emission data.

This achievement demonstrates Chalkis Shipyards’ strategic commitment to transparency, compliance with international sustainability standards, and continuous improvement of its environmental performance. It also represents a key step in monitoring, managing, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its operations.

As the shipbuilding industry advances toward decarbonization, Chalkis Shipyards SA continues to implement responsible and sustainable practices, actively contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

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Danaos Corporation, one of the world's largest independent owners of containerships, has proceeded into a strategic partnership with Glenfarne Group LLC to advance the Alaska LNG project.

More specifically, Danaos Corporation will make a $50 million development capital equity investment in Glenfarne Alaska Partners LLC while it will also be the preferred tonnage provider to construct and operate at least six LNG carriers to deliver LNG to global customers for Glenfarne Alaska LNG, LLC, majority owner and developer of the Alaska LNG Project.

Glenfarne is developing Alaska LNG in two financially independent phases to accelerate project execution. Phase One consists of a 765-mile, 42-inch pipeline to transport natural gas from Alaska's North Slope to meet Alaska's domestic energy needs. Phase Two will add the LNG liquefaction terminal and related infrastructure to export 20 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of LNG.

Glenfarne became lead developer of Alaska LNG in March 2025. Since then, Glenfarne has secured preliminary commercial commitments from leading LNG buyers in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand for 11 MTPA of LNG, and strategic partnerships that also include Baker Hughes and POSCO International. Glenfarne owns 75% of Alaska LNG and the Alaska Gasline Development Corporation owns 25%.

Glenfarne Group is a privately held global developer, owner, and operator of energy infrastructure assets that owns and operates over 60 energy assets through three core businesses: Global LNG Solutions, Grid Stability, and Renewables. Glenfarne's permitted North American LNG portfolio totals 32.8 MTPA of capacity under development in Alaska, Louisiana, and Texas.

Danaos Chief Executive Officer Dr. John Coustas commented: "As Alaska LNG opens up a major new source of North Pacific energy, Danaos is pleased to offer our shipping expertise to reliably serve customers across the region and around the world with safe, competitive LNG delivery. This transaction provides us with an opportunity to expand on our expertise in global seaborne transportation and expand the footprint of Danaos in the LNG and Energy segments."

About Danaos Corporation

Danaos Corporation is one of the largest independent owners of modern, large-size container vessels. The current fleet of 75 container vessels aggregating 477,491 TEUs and 25 under construction container vessels aggregating 163,950 TEUs ranks Danaos among the largest container vessels charter owners in the world based on total TEU capacity. Danaos has also invested in the dry bulk sector with the acquisition of 11 capesize drybulk vessels, which on a fully delivered basis, aggregate approximately 1,943,286 DWT. The container vessels fleet is chartered to many of the world's largest liner companies on fixed-rate charters. The long track record of success is predicated on its efficient and rigorous operational standards and environmental controls. Danaos Corporation's shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "DAC".

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MIRIC, one of the oldest and most respected marine insurance brokers in Greece, with a high profile legacy Greek shipping portfolio, which complements fully the SEASCOPE HELLAS /SEASCOPE EUROPE well established presence in Greece for well over 50 years. SEASCOPE GROUP is placing insurances of over 2000 ships, of 120m Dwt, 85% of it being Greek, thus, SEASCOPE insures and leads around 30% of Greek tonnage. The addition of MIRIC’s clients will bring the new JV at the top of the Greek Marine Insurance broking market.

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