Singapore Navy deploys unmanned vessels for patrol
The units are equipped with collision detection sensors.
The Republic of Singapore Navy announced that its Maritime Security Unmanned Surface Vessels (MARSEC USVs) have begun operational patrols in January 2025, helping manned ships in securing the city-state's waters.
According to the government, the USVs, which can be operated by a two-man crew, were developed with the Defence Science & Technology Agency and Defence Science Organisation National Laboratories. These are 16.9 metres long and have a speed in excess of 25 knots.
Capabilities
The vessels conduct patrols and can also investigate and interdict suspicious vessels, allowing the independence-class littoral mission vessels (LMVs) to focus on more complex missions.
These also use technologies, such as the collision detection and collision avoidance algorithm, that
enable autonomous operations in congested maritime environments.
The said system integrates the USV’s perception and navigation sensors, as well as collision detection equipment used for maritime navigation with an algorithm designed for the Navy’s operations, the government said.
“This rules-based system automates the collision avoidance decision-making process while ensuring that the USVs exhibit avoidance behaviour that complies with the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea,” authorities said.
The algorithm was tested using a verification & validation approach, with over 12 million kilometres of simulated distance, with zero collisions, equivalent to 26 years of real-world testing. The USVs have also clocked over 1,000 hours of real-world autonomous operations, with zero need for human intervention.
KMG’s electric supply boat trials set for H2
Kuok Maritime Group (KMG) electric powered supply boat, the biggest in Singapore, will hold trial operations in the second half as part of the push by the city-state’s maritime sector to achieve net zero by 2050.
The PXO-EXL-1 electric supply boat, which can cruise at eight knots per hour (14.8 km/h) in zeroemission mode, also seeks to help companies eliminate fuel costs and boost revenue whilst transporting supplies, equipment, and personnel to offshore platforms.
“These trials will provide key insights into its operational efficiency, cost savings, and carbon emission savings,” Tan Thai Yong, CEO and managing director at KMG unit PaxOcean Marine & Offshore Pte. Ltd., told Marine & Industrial Report. “This paves the
way for further innovation and infrastructure improvements to support the broader adoption of electric vessels.”
Electric vessel design
Lessons from the trials would help refine the design and development of future electric supply vessels, the CEO said.
Singapore’s maritime industry emitted 32.5 million metric tonnes of carbon in 2022, No. 7 amongst global emitters, according to a November 2024 report by German online data portal Statista.
The 26-metre boat is powered by an energy storage system with two 500 kilowatt-hour batteries that are charged onshore, Tan said. Its propulsion system consists of two 300-kilowatt electric motors for a cruising speed of 8 knots and
With about 600 trips a day, the reduction is 300 metric tonnes a day or 9,000 metric tonnes a month
a range of 80 nautical miles for extended anchorage areas.
Its hull design improves efficiency and cuts power consumption by as much as 10% at 10 knots under full load, said Tan, who is also chairman of the Coastal Sustainability Alliance (CSA), an industry-wide collaboration led by KMG.
The electric boat uses digital twin technology developed by the statecontrolled Technology Centre for Offshore and Marine, Singapore for real-time monitoring and predictive
The vessels can also investigate and interdict other suspicious vessels
The PXO-EXL-1 electric supply boat can cruise at eight knots per hour in zero-emission mode Tan Thai Yong, CEO and Managing Director
The tests would help refine the development of future e-supply vessels.
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maintenance.“Unlike traditional vessels requiring frequent engine maintenance, the electric drivetrain significantly reduces mechanical wear and tear, leading to lower maintenance costs,” Tan told Marine & Industrial Report.
The PXO-EXL-1 has a payload capacity of up to 60 pallets or 40 metric tonnes, which is about four times that of a conventional supply boat. This allows fewer trips, replacing two to three conventional supply boats.
Tan said they expect a fourfold increase in revenue for operators who use the electric supply boat compared with a conventional vessel. The e-supply boat seeks to eliminate fuel expenses for companies, resulting in as much as 40% annual fuel cost reduction per vessel, the managing director said.
“Maintenance costs are also
substantially lower due to the absence of an internal combustion engine, which requires frequent overhauls, oil changes, and component replacements,” Tan told the publication in an interview
The e-supply boat is expected to reduce annual carbon emissions equivalent to taking about 100 petrol cars off the road, he said. It also operates with zero-emission capabilities for 60% energy savings.
Tan said the reduction in Scope 3 emissions — greenhouse gas emissions that occur indirectly as a result of a company’s business activities — per arrival at the Port of Singapore is 0.5 metric tonne.
“With about 600 trips a day, the reduction is 300 metric tonnes a day or 9,000 metric tonnes a month,” he said, adding that the vessel also cuts marine
noise pollution, he added.
PaxOcean’s engineering team designed the e-supply boat with CSA's support. Tan said building an e-supply boat costs two to three times that of a conventional one due to high battery costs, without providing exact figures. According to Tan, batteries can make up 50% of the total cost, depending on type and storage system.
“The charging infrastructure is still in its early stages, and there is a need for high-powered chargers at strategic locations to support vessel operations,” he said. “However, ongoing advancements in battery technology are expected to drive costs down over time.”
Tan expects the transition to electric vessels to take time since the industry is still in its early stages of electrification.
Seatrium secures major jack-up rig
The rig will be constructed in the largest shipyard in the MENA region.
Seatrium Offshore Technology has secured a contract from the International Maritime Industries (IMI), the largest shipyard in hte Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
This contract involves the supply of equipment and a licence for a LeTourneau Super 116E Class SelfElevating Drilling Unit, marking the first new-build construction at IMI since its inception and the beginning of a long-term collaboration to build offshore jack-ups in the Kingdom.
The LeTourneau Super 116E Class
design, chosen for its suitability to the MENA region’s operational needs, will feature 343 feet of leg and a 1.5 millionpound hook load, incorporating advanced cyber systems. This order is the 44th for the LeTourneau Super 116 series, highlighting its popularity and reliability.
Seatrium, known for designing the world’s first independent leg jack-up drilling rig in 1955, has been crucial in the construction of over half of all jackup rigs currently in service.
Notably, 65% of jack-ups operating in the Middle East are Seatrium designs.
This latest contract aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, focusing on advanced technology, sustainability, and independence in offshore drilling.
The partnership between Seatrium and IMI is expected to significantly contribute to the region’s offshore drilling capabilities, supporting local content requirements and technological advancement. As Seatrium continues to lead in offshore rig design, this collaboration underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions in the global energy sector.
Strategic Marine speeds up crew transfers offshore
Two of the three AIRCAT 35 Crewliner vessels have commenced operations in Angola.
Strategic Marine (S) Pte Ltd. has delivered two sidewall hovercraft to Dubai-based All Energies Services to help the company speed up crew transfers in the offshore oil and gas sector, whilst cutting fuel expenses.
Three 35-metre AIRCAT 35 Crewliner vessels were made for $45m, all for All Energies Services’ fleet in Angola, Chan Eng Yew, CEO at Strategic Marine, told Marine & Industrial Report in an interview. The last ship is making its way to the Southern African nation, he added.
Faster journeys
The shipbuilder’s surface effect technology lets its vessels to travel almost twice as fast as conventional ships using the same amount of fuel, Chan noted that whilst surface effect technology has been around for years, it has been overlooked by the oil and gas industry.
To fill the gap, Strategic Marine worked with Norway-based Espeland and Skomedal Naval Architects and France-based AIRCAT Vessels to develop the AIRCAT 35 Crewliner surface effect ships, he added.
With speeds reaching more than 50 knots or more than 90 kilometres per hour, he described the vessels as something that “sits between a more conventional vessel and a hovercraft.” They use
Chan Eng Yew CEO Strategic Marine
air to barely lift the vessel out of the water, minimising hull drag.
The ships, which can move 80 crew members, use four 16-cylinder MTU Series 2000M72 engines from Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG, the company said.
According to Chan, they chose MTU for the project because it is fast. Each engine delivers 5,760 kilowatts of power and features “the highest power-to-weight ratio available in the market.”
Rolls-Royce MTU is also developing upgrade kits for these engines to ensure they can be used
This is also going to enable the project to be relevant in the years ahead, when methanol becomes a more commonly used fuel source
with alternative fuels in the future, he added. “This is also going to enable the project to be relevant in the years ahead, when methanol
BS Offshore launches Yno 320 with Ulstein Verft
The unit can accommodate up to 132 crews and clients.
BS Offshore and Ulstein Verft has passed a significant milestone with the launch of the Yno 320, a state-ofthe-art Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV). This event followed an extensive outfitting phase that included the installation of electrical and mechanical systems, piping, accommodation, and system integration.
Station details
The Yno 320 was towed from Ulstein Verft’s dock hall to the outer dock on 20 February. Whilst stationed in the outer dock, the Ampelmann tower and gangway were installed. On 23 February, the vessel was taken into the sea and positioned quayside, where she will remain until sea trials commence later this year.
Featuring the TWIN X-STERN design, the Yno 320 is equipped with a 3D-compensated crane and a walk-towork gangway, ensuring safe and efficient personnel and cargo transfer to offshore wind turbine facilities. Its diesel-electric propulsion system and substantial battery energy storage significantly reduce its environmental footprint and prepare it for methanol as fuel.
The launch of this CSOV newbuild marks a leap forward in supporting the offshore wind industry, according to the company. The vessel offers modern, highcomfort accommodation for up to 132 crew and clients. The vessel is planned for delivery in the second quarter of 2025, enhancing BS Offshore’s operational capabilities, it added.
becomes a more commonly used fuel source.”
Reduced emissions
The AIRCAT 35 Crewliner’s speed reduces carbon emissions to 9,000 tonnes yearly, compared to 18,000 to 26,000 tonnes for conventional vessels, according to data from Strategic Marine.
Chan said he expects the deployment of ships using surface effect technology in Asia’s oil and gas industry to gain further momentum after the company deal with All Energies Services.
Strategic Marine has signed a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia’s Centus Marine Sdn Bhd to explore the use of the tech, he told the publication.
“The oil and gas industry is a little bit more conservative when it comes to new technology, so it will take time for them to warm up to the idea,” Chan said.
“But since these three were already successfully deployed, the momentum of the adoption of this technology, we feel at least will start to increase,” the CEO told Marine & Industrial Report
Norway
The ships can move 80 crew members Singapore
First large-scale methanol ship sets sail in China
vessel has a loading capacity of over 16,000 TEUs.
COSCO Shipping has unveiled China’s first 16,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) methanol dual-fuel container ship, which has been named M.V. COSCO Shipping Yangpu, the company announced.
In a statement, the company said the ship is the first in a series from COSCO Shipping Holdings, constructed by COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry
Yangzhou. The vessel has a length of 366 metres, a molded beam of 51 metres, and a maximum loading capacity of 16,136 TEUs.
COSCO Shipping Yangpu will be able to do a one-way transpacific voyage in “pure methanol mode” due to the innovative design of its large methanol storage tank, according to the company. Construction began in April 2024.
Ocean Network Express unveils ONE Sparkle
The vessel has methanol and ammonia-ready fuel capabilities.
Singapore-based liner shipping company Ocean Network Express
(ONE) reveals its first owned and operated newbuilding container vessel, named ONE Sparkle. The naming of ONE Sparkle represents another important milestone for ONE. This vessel is our first owned newbuilding, and it also showcases our commitment to sustainable shipping with its innovative design and alternative fuel capabilities,” according to Jeremy Nixon, CEO at Ocean Network Express.
“As we expand our owned fleet, these advanced vessels will play a crucial role in meeting our environmental targets whilst enhancing our service reliability,” he added.
ONE Sparkle's advanced environmental features includemethanol and ammoniaready fuel capability, enabling future conversion to these alternative fuels;
advanced hull design optimised for improved energy efficiency, and latest generation energy-saving devices.
Other features include smart technology integration for optimal vessel performance and shore power connection capabilities for zero-emission port stays.
Upon delivery, the vessel will boost ONE’s competitiveness and highlight its commitment to sustainable shipping.
Fleet details
ONE Sparkle is built at Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, South Korea, and can carry about 13,800 twenty feet equivalent containers. ONE Sparkle is classed ABS, flagged Singapore, and is managed by OneSea Solutions Pte. Ltd, a which is jointly owned by ONE and Seaspan Corporation.
Imabari Shipbuilding completes 40,000-ton bulk
The vessel has the capacity to load bulk cargoes, grain, and coal.
Japan’s Imabari Shipbuilding has announced the completion of the 40,000-ton bulk carrier called Mersea Island.
The company described the vessel as an ocean-going bulk carrier with a double-hull, box-shaped hold construction and topside tanks. It is equipped with four deck cranes, and each cargo hold features a large hatch opening with a folding-type hatch cover.
The vessel is designed to transport various cargoes, including bulk goods, grain, coal, ore, cement, steel coil, and long-size steel, Imabari said.
This vessel is equipped to comply with various environmental regulations, including the MARPOL Convention and the Ballast Water Management Convention. It achieves high propulsion
performance through energy-saving devices, a high-efficiency propeller, and low-friction hull paint.
3,000-unit milestone
The Japanese shipbuilding company also recently celebrated reaching its 3,000th ship milestone with the naming and delivery of the Cape Suzuran.
In a statement, Imabari said the 181,500 deadweight ton bulk carrier was for Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd.
“Starting with our first steel ship, the Fuji Maru, in 1956, we built our 1,000th ship, the CHUBU MARU, in 1997, and our 2,000th ship, the CAPE LILY, in 2012. With the delivery of this ship, we have reached a new milestone of building our 3,000th ship,” the company said in a press release.
The vessel complies with various environmental regulations
The
The company can complete a one-way transpacific voyage in “pure methanol mode”
The vessel is 366 metres long with a molded beam of metres (Photo from COSCO Shipping) China
Japan
Singapore
Singapore tightens methanol bunkering rules
This covers safe handling, transfer, and measurement of the fuel.
Singapore has issued a new Technical Reference (TR) 129 that establishes a comprehensive framework for the safe and efficient use of methanol as an alternative for bunkering operations.
TR 129 was published by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), through the Singapore Standards Council.
The guidelines set out requirements for safe handling, transfer, and measurement of methanol in bunkering operations. These include custody transfer requirements, operational and safety requirements for the delivery of methanol from a bunker tanker to receiving vessels, and guidance on the use of mass flow meters.
TR 129 incorporates lessons from the
first simultaneous methanol bunkering and cargo operations in May 2024 and the first ship-to-container ship methanol bunkering in July 2023.
New framework
The Working Group on Methanol Bunkering developed the framework with support from the Standards Development Organisation at the Singapore Chemical Industry Council.
Choy Sauw Kook, Director-General (Quality & Excellence), EnterpriseSG, said the “TR 129 will help to equip our local operators with not only the capabilities, but confidence to carry out methanol bunkering operations, and pave the way towards a multi-fuel future in Singapore.”
Dalian port opens route to Egypt and, Türkiye
Mediterranean Shipping Company launched the new service.
Anew direct container shipping route was launched that connects China's Dalian Container Terminal with ports in countries such as Egypt, Türkiye, and Israel.
According to Chinese authorities, the new service is operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company, which plans to deploy 16 container ships, each with a capacity of 19,000 twenty-foot equivalent units.
The ships will offer weekly services to transport various goods, including chemical products, auto parts, mechanical equipment, and mineral resources.
Making the first trip from the Dalian port is the MSC SVEVA vessel.
Jilin Flying Tiger Logistics Group Co., Ltd.,
an international freight forwarding agency, has loaded over 200 tonnes of cargo onto the ship for export to Türkiye.
Faster transit times
Wang Nan, vice managing director of Jilin Flying Tiger Logistics, said the new route saves about 10 days in transit time compared to other shipping routes.
This will help reduce capital costs and inventory pressure, and enhance supply chain stability, the director added.
The Dalian Port now operates 106 container shipping routes, including 93 international routes that connect over 300 ports in more than 160 countries and regions worldwide.
TR129 gives guidance on the use of mass flow metres
The new route saves about 10 days in transit time compared to other shipping routes
Singapore
China
MOL begins bio-LNG use for Celeste Ace carrier
It is the first Japanese ocean-going vessel to use the alternative fuel.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has started using bio-liquified natural gas (LNG) for its car carrier Celeste Ace, making it the first ocean-going vessel operated by a Japanese shipping company to use such fuel.
In a statement, the company said about 500 tonnes of bio-LNG from Titan Supply B.V. was supplied. The fuel has a carbon intensity of less than zero on a life cycle basis from fuel production to consumption.
Reducing emissions
Whilst LNG fuel can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 25% compared to conventional fuel oil, bio-LNG fuel derived from waste and residues, which is also carbon neutral, can further reduce the emissions.
Furthermore, bio-LNG fuel represents an effective solution for decarbonising ship operations because methane is the primary
component in both LNG and bio-LNG, the existing LNG supply chain infrastructure can be leveraged for transport and consumption.
When it comes to decarbonising ship operations, methane is the primary component in both LNG and bio-LNG, thus the existing LNG supply chain infrastructure can be leveraged for transport and consumption.
"We are exploring the use of ammonia and hydrogen fuels as part of our strategy to adopt clean alternative fuels, whilst moving to expand the use of LNG-fueled vessels and more quickly achieve a low-carbon society," MOL Marine Fuel GX Division General Manager Yoshikazu Urushitani said.
"We will also be early adopters of bio-LNG and synthetic LNG. Partnering with Titan, we will start using bio-LNG to lead the shipping industry in the transition to clean alternative fuels," the general manager added.
Seatrium, BP sign MoU for Gulf of Mexico project
They will build the Tiber Floating Production Unit.
Seatrium and BP Exploration & Production Inc. (BP) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to build the Tiber Floating Production Unit (FPU) in the US Gulf of Mexico, the companies announced.
Under the MoU, Seatrium will carry out the engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) of an FPU designed to support the development of BP’s deepwater assets in the US Gulf of Mexico.
The Tiber FPU will be equipped with advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
BP and Seatrium will jointly define the
initial works and EPCC scope under the MoU. The Tiber contract award is subject to the final investment decision by BP, anticipated later in 2025.
Past collaborations
The MoU expands Seatrium and BP’s 2024 partnership on the Kaskida FPU, a greenfield project about 250 miles southwest of New Orleans in the Gulf of Mexico’s Keathley Canyon.
The Tiber discovery is a deepwater offshore oil field located approximately 300 miles southwest of New Orleans in the Keathley Canyon area of the Gulf of Mexico, Seatrium said.
NYK and partners bag AiP for ammonia bunkering
The vessel design complies with MPA's safety standards.
Japan’s Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) and its consortium partners have received Approval-inPrinciple (AiP) for their ammonia-fuelled ammonia bunkering vessel design.
Collaborative design
In a joint statement, the parties said certification validates the design’s compliance with safety, technical, and environmental standards.
“By enhancing the feasibility of ammonia as a future fuel, this project positions the consortium at the forefront of the maritime energy transition,” NYK and AiP added.
The vessel design incorporates ammonia fuel dual-fuel engines from IHI Power Systems and a bunkering boom by TB Global Technologies. These were also installed on the world's first commercialuse ammonia-fuelled tugboat, Sakigake, delivered in August 2024.
The bunkering boom includes a HighSpeed Ammonia Purging Emergency Release System for quick vessel disconnection in emergencies.
Seatrium, through its wholly-owned subsidiary LMG Marin AS, assisted in the vessel’s design, which will be submitted to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore for evaluation.
The company is exploring the use of ammonia and hydrogen fuels for alternative fuels
Japan
The deal builds on previous partnership on the Kaskida FPU Singapore
NYK partnered with LMG Marin, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Seatrium Japan
Anschütz updates eLog features for ballast data
The electronic logbook helps ensure compliance with IMO.
Anschütz has released a new software version for the eLog (electronic logbook) to meet the latest format requirements for Ballast Water Record Books (BWRBs), which were recently introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Shipowners can take double advantage of this update, as it not only ensures compliance with the new IMO regulations but also improves operational efficiency and reduces administrative workload.
The new software version of the Anschütz eLog includes essential improvements designed for ballast water documentation, including an IMOcompliant format, take-over function, tank-by-tank feature, and data validation.
This feature automatically transfers information from former entries, minimising manual input, reducing errors, and making the record-keeping process faster and more reliable. The data recorded in the eLog also indicates checks
and balances for plausible values of the documented ballast water operations.
Other improvements include tamperproof security with built-in blockchain technology, user-friendly interface, and remote accessibility that allows shorebased teams to monitor and report ballast water operations.
This update reinforces eLog’s role in ensuring that shipowners are fully compliant with current documentation requirements whilst maintaining maximum transparency and integrity of their data.
Enhanced transparency
Under the Circular BWM.2/Circ.80, ships with an approved Ballast Water Management plan must record ballast water operations in the BWRB using an updated reporting form and revised codes in MEPC.369(80), which amends Appendix II of the Convention.
These changes, effective from 1 February 2025, also introduce voluntary tank-by-tank logging to enhance transparency and compliance with the Ballast Water Management Convention.
The digital capture and use of data improves data quality, facilitates work on board, and creates synergies for further use, according to Anschütz.The eLog offers the widest range of digital books and reports and is accepted by many major flag states as the full equivalent of traditional paper documentation.
Largest methanol-fuelled engine bags type approval
It will be installed on a 16,000 TEU container ship in China.
Swiss marine power company WinGD's largest methanol-fuelled engine will soon be brought to China after it has passed factory and type approval tests.
According to WinGD, the ten-cylinder, 92-bore X-DF-M engine will be used in a 16,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit container ship being built for COSCO Shipping. This development was marked by a delivery ceremony held at engine builder CMD in Shanghai.
Stringent tests
There were eight classification societies present during the event for a signing of the X-DF-M type approval certification, which assures that the engine can be built to WinGD’s design by all engine builders.
WinGD said there are 56 orders for X-DF-M engines across bore sizes
ranging from 52 to 92 in similar cylinder configurations and engine rating fields as diesel-fuelled X-Engines.
“The addition of methanol capability to WinGD’s engine line-up further extends the decarbonisation options available to deep-sea ship operators, which include the long-established X-DF LNG-fuelled engine platform and a new ammonia-fuelled X-DF-A platform,” the company said.
The first X-DF-M engine will be installed on the fourth vessel of a new series. The previous three engines were fitted with 10X92-B engines which will be converted to 10X92DF-M engines once the first, newbuild methanol engine is commissioned. Dual-fuel methanol conversion packages will be available for all WinGD single-fuel and dual-fuel engines.
Danfoss marks first year of electric ferry success
Mediterranean Shipping Company launched the new service.
Danfoss Singapore celebrates the first anniversary of its fully electric ferry fleet, Electric Dream, which has significantly contributed to Singapore’s maritime decarbonisation efforts by eliminating over 6,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. In collaboration with Penguin and other industry partners, Danfoss has developed a scalable and adaptable model that aligns with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and the 2050 decarbonisation goal.
The Electric Dream fleet’s success is attributed to Danfoss’ innovative fastcharging solutions and technology, making the fully electric ferry operationally viable.
Lodi Boedels, head of engineering for Marine & Land Electrification, APAC, Danfoss Drives, highlighted the efficiency and output advantages of a fully electric system over a hybrid propulsion system.
He noted, “The sustainability impact of Electric Dream demonstrates how this project model can be replicated for Singapore’s maritime decarbonisation roadmap," according to Boedels.
Huan Ping Tan, head of Drives Singapore at Danfoss Drives, emphasised the importance of tailored decarbonisation solutions and customer-centric approaches in facilitating the adoption of electric solutions in the maritime industry. He addressed the challenges of balancing operational needs with sustainability, stating that upcoming shifts towards electrification are crucial for the industry’s future.
As Singapore continues to pursue its ambitious environmental goals, the Electric Dream project stands as a testament to the potential of electric solutions in reducing carbon emissions, the company said.
Other improvements include a built-in blockchain
The ferry eliminated over 6,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions
Germany
Singapore
Ship managers call for IMO net-zero revisions
By assigning liability for compliance fees, ship managers are forced to ask shipowners to provide financial security to cover risks.
Ship managers have expressed concerns in connection with the International Maritime Organization’s future net-zero framework and have suggested concrete changes which they believe would make the proposals more effective.
On behalf of the global ship management sector, InterManager, the international association for ship managers, has submitted a proposal to the next meeting of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC83) to suggest important changes.
The submission warns that, in its current form, the greenhouse gas (GHG) proposal does not properly account for the involvement of a third-party International Safety Management (ISM) Manager.
Highlighting that roughly 20% of the global fleet is operated by a third-party technical ship manager as the ISM Manager, the submission asserts the need for further refining to make it applicable in practice and to avoid future national implementing acts being open to inevitable and avoidable litigation by ship managers.
'No material influence'
In comparison to the charterer and shipowner, the ship manager has no material influence over the GHG intensity of a ship. Ship managers have no say regarding the type of engine powering the managed ship, nor whether sails, solar, fuel cells or other installations are installed on board.
“Ship managers are not consulted and, in addition, have no influence as to which fuels are procured and supplied to any of the managed ships, neither contractually nor in practice. The matter is negotiated between the shipowner and the charterer and agreed in the charter party agreement for the ship, together with speed and consumption, the remaining significant parameters impacting on its GHG intensity,” the submission states.
However, the current proposed draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI on the IMO net-zero framework suggest making ship managers the sole responsible entity for penalties related to GHG emissions. According to InterManager, this clearly misidentifies the ship manager as the polluter to be held responsible and penalised which,
as well as being factually wrong, could lead to legal challenges.
Further, by assigning liability for compliance fees to the ship manager, they in turn, are forced to ask shipowners to provide upfront financial security to cover potential risks of insolvency or defaults. This forces significant amounts of equity to be tied up in security, limiting cash flow available for growth or investment in new ships.
InterManager President Sebastian von Hardenberg commented: “We ship managers are fully committed to playing our part in shipping’s journey to net zero. However, when it comes to the GHG intensity of a ship, ship managers have no say whatsoever in any of the decisions that result in material impact; they are not even consulted. In shore terms, we are the facility managers, not the factory owners.
“In taking our points into consideration, the IMO can develop a more practical and equitable framework for decarbonisation that is supported by all stakeholders within the shipping industry,” he said.
Defining the responsible party InterManager suggests amending the wording in Regulation X of the framework to recognise the role of third-party ISM managers, which may be subject to varying national laws depending on the jurisdictions of flag countries.
“The shipowner shall be entitled to reimbursement in accordance with national law from any other entity that has assumed the control of the ship from the shipowner on matters that affect the amount of GHG emissions resulting from fuel used on board during the reporting period,” InterManager states in its proposed replacement.
“If the shipowner has delegated responsibility for ensuring compliance with the ISM/ISPS Code to a separate entity (the “ISM Manager”), he shall be responsible for ensuring that the shipowner is registered as such with the appropriate authorities, ensuring that the GHG emissions of the ship are measured and reported accurately and in a timely manner in accordance with the regulation,” InterManager added.
In addition to the liability clauses for net-zero emissions, ship owners have also
When it comes to the GHG intensity of a ship, ship managers have no say whatsoever in any of the decisions that result in material impact; they are not even consulted.
previously raised concerns about the use of Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) ratings With the IMO’s initial CII ratings delivered from Flag States to shipowners, the shipping industry notes the CII scheme’s inadequacies while continuing to work to ensure a CII methodology that is accurate.
Roughly 20% of the global fleet is operated by a third-party technical ship manager
Sebastian von Hardenberg, president at InterManager
Strategic Marine inks contract with Odyssey Group
The vessel’s construction will begin immediately, with delivery anticipated for the fourth quarter of 2025.
Strategic Marine, a leading provider of specialised aluminium vessels announced the signing of a new contract with Odyssey Group to build a state-of-the-art multi-purpose survey vessel. Incorporating the proven success of new technologies for operational use in Australia.
Under the terms of the agreement, Strategic Marine will construct the advanced survey vessel tailored to meet Odyssey Group’s specific operational needs.
Vessel features
The vessel will be equipped with the latest technology, including gyro-stabilisation for improved vessel stability and operational capability, a moonpool will be provided for the launching and recovery of survey equipment and a reinforced aft deck to facilitate a possible future A-frame installation, all of which to aid marine exploration, research, and survey tasks as required.
The vessel will also be fitted with a deck crane coupled with an open transom with rollers and tugger winch for ease of buoy servicing. Powered by twin Caterpillar C18s and props, coupled with twin bow thrusters, the vessel will have excellent manoeuvrability.
With an overall length of 24m, and Australia Maritime Safety Authority class 1E, 2B survey will allow the vessel to be used for both passenger transport and for further offshore operations.
“We are excited to partner with Odyssey Group on this important project,” said Chan Eng Yew, CEO of Strategic Marine. “This contract is a testament to our capabilities in building highly specialised vessels, and we look forward to delivering this multipurpose survey vessel that will support Odyssey Group’s mission of providing world-class marine services. This new build aligns
with our ongoing strategy to expand our portfolio and serve clients on all continents. ”
Odyssey Group is known for its operation of hydrographic survey crafts, pilot boats, and other work boats. The new survey vessel will be equipped to operate in diverse and challenging environments, including offshore and deepwater regions, enhancing the company’s operational capabilities.
“We are thrilled to work with Strategic Marine on the construction of this vessel,” said Wesley van der Spuy, CEO of Odyssey Group. “Their
Austal to build hydrogenready passenger ferry
The $174m
Austal Australasia has bagged a contract, reaching $174m (AU$275m), to design and construct a 130-metre combined cycle, hydrogen-ready vehicle passenger ferry.
According to Austal, the ROPAX catamaran project, awarded by Sweden’s Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden, will be the largest vessel it constructed. It will feature a combined cycle propulsion system that includes both gas and steam turbines.
The vessel will be able to transport up to 1,500 passengers, cargo, and 400 vehicles.
Construction of the vessel will be conducted at the Austal Philippines shipyard starting the first half of 2026, with target completion by mid-2028.
“This vessel is a key step in our strategy
to achieve climate-neutral operations, utilising lightweight green aluminium and advanced hydrodynamic design to minimise fuel consumption and emissions, according to Gotlandsbolaget chief executive officer, Håkan Johansson.
Planned projects
The project is part of Gotlandsbolaget’s Horizon X programme.
The companies first announced plans for the development of a 130-metre multi-fuel high-speed vehicle passenger ferry design in April 2023. The project obtained approval in principle in October 2024 from Det Norske Veritas, which is the leading, global independent nautical classification society.
expertise and reputation for building high-quality vessels and familiarity with Australian rules and requirements make them the ideal partner for this project. The new multi-purpose survey vessel will provide our team with the capabilities needed to expand our operations and offer even more services to our clients.”
The vessel’s construction will begin immediately, with delivery anticipated for the fourth quarter of 2025.
Major industry players Odyssey Group are a maritime logistics provider with operations
This new build aligns with our ongoing strategy to expand our portfolio and serve clients on all continents
in the world’s largest bulk export port, the Port of Port Hedland and Victoria’s premier bulk export port at the Port of Geelong. Their clients include some of the world’s leading miners, and Port Authorities, shipping agents and tug owners. What we do is provide and operate pilot boats, hydrographic survey vessels, line boats and crew and cargo transfer vessels. They also provide towage management services, marine infrastructure maintenance and other on and off-water logistics services to ensure the continuity of port operations.
Strategic Marine Group is a global shipbuilder with a focus on specialty aluminium craft construction and fabrication. It has a shipyard in Singapore, and a presence in Australia, Europe and the Middle East. It operates principally in five key market segments, producing high-quality vessels for Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy, Ferries & Transportation, Defence and Paramilitary and Port / Pilot Services.
The vessel will be used for passenger transport and offshore operations
Floaters drive demand for offshore wind engineers
Floater designers and wind turbine installation technicians will be needed under Singapore’s offshore energy plan.
Singapore
Demand for offshore wind engineers especially in floater design is expected to rise as Singapore expands its marine and offshore wind sector, analysts said.
“Although only 1% to 2% of new offshore wind capacity today is floating, we expect this to rise to around 15% in the next 10 years due to the move toward deeper waters,” Dieter Billen, a partner for Southeast Asia at management consulting firm Roland Berger, told Marine & Industrial Report in an interview.
Floaters or floating offshore wind platforms are structures that keep wind turbines stable and buoyant while being moored to the seabed.
Expansion in offshore energy
Offshore wind projects are rightly listed amongst the key opportunities identified in Singapore’s Marine and Offshore Energy Industry Plan released in 11 February, as Singapore is ideally positioned to become a market leader in offshore wind energy, according to Maarten de Vries, a senior associate at Roland Berger.
Under the plan, the city-state seeks to create and redesign 1,000 roles in the industry by 2030, he pointed out.
Offshore wind projects will need skilled professionals in the design and construction of wind turbine installation vessels and cable-laying vessels, amongst other key roles, De Vries said.
He expects operations and maintenance to generate the most jobs since they demand talent to monitor wind turbines and their components.
The industry should hone engineering and technical expertise to support the state plan
Technical expertise
V. Suresh, chief executive officer at employment platform Foundit, said jobs such as offshore wind project managers, hydrogen energy specialists, digital twin engineers, carbon capture and storage technicians, and sustainability compliance officers have also emerged to support offshore renewable projects.
Industry-wide, emerging roles include sustainability managers, maritime robotics specialists, digital bunkering coordinators, and Internet of Things (IoT) engineers, the executive said in an interview.
Seatrium, one of Singapore’s top listed marine and offshore companies, has introduced positions to facilitate its shift towards offshore renewables and sustainability-focused projects. These include positions for digital app developers, robotic process automation engineers, user experience designers, cybersecurity specialists, and data analysts.
Supporting state plan
The industry should hone engineering and technical expertise to support the state plan, Suresh said. This includes electrical, technical, and engineering skills for turbine components, high-voltage cables, and substations, as well as lifting, climbing,
Maersk, Cochin Shipyard team up for ship repairs
They will first focus on vessels up to 7,000 TEU for afloat repairs.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) and A.P. Moller - Maersk (Maersk) have signed a memorandum of understanding to look into opportunities in ship repair, maintenance, and building activities in India. Under the deal, Maersk will leverage its expertise as an off-taker in its global fleet to strengthen CSL’s capabilities, focusing on container ship maintenance, repair, and drydocking operations.
Joint projects
The parties’ key areas of cooperation include technical expertise sharing for achieving global standards in ship maintenance; exploring of ship repair, dry docking, and new building opportunities; conducting training programmes on
and rope access training for high-voltage technicians, he added.
Skills in carbon accounting and life cycle assessment, circular economy principles, and renewable energy integration are also important, according to Suresh.
He said marine and offshore companies could tap training initiatives from SkillsFuture Singapore, universities such as Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Polytechnic, and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore on topics like the Industry 4.0, green shipping, and smart port management.
The government has also announced a $100m support package for marine and
offshore engineering companies.
According to Alvin Tan, minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth & Ministry of Trade and Industry, this will foster partnership and adopt solutions in areas including offshore wind, floating storage, and digitalisation over the next five years.
Experts underlined the strategic advantage of implementing solutions to comply with regulatory standards. They also stressed the urgency of boosting the adoption of groundbreaking technologies like carbon capture and storage alternative fuels, and digital innovations for automation and efficiency.
Hong Kong to invest HK$215m for smart port
A Maritime and Port Development Board will also be formed.
The government of Hong Kong is injecting US$27.7m (HK$215m) to install a port community system to enhance the flow of data amongst maritime stakeholders.
During this year’s budget announcement, authorities said they will seek funding approval from Legislative Council (LegCo) for the said initiative.
Hong Kong also said it continues to identify logistics sites, with the first batch located in the vicinity of the Kwai Tsing Container Terminals having just been disposed of by public tender.
Support for research
responsible practices; and holding skill development initiatives for both CSL employees and Maersk seafarers.
The collaboration will initially focus on vessels up to 7,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) for afloat repairs and up to 4,000 TEU for dry-docking, with capabilities expected to expand over time
More partnerships
Maersk has also inked a 10-year ocean and integrated logistics service deal with Castlerey, a Singaporean-founded furtinure brand. It will provide end- toend logistics solutions like ocean freight, intermodal transportation, distribution, and warehousing in key markets, boosting its global expansion.
“The government initiated a study on the development model for logistics sites in the NM in order to develop modern logistics clusters. Findings of the study are expected to be announced this year,” its statement read.
The government has also announced plans to form the Maritime and Port Development Board. This will “strengthen relevant research, promotion, and manpower training to facilitate the sustainable development of the international maritime centre.”
“Additional funding will be provided to enhance its research capabilities, strengthen its Mainland and overseas promotional work and boost manpower training, aiding the government in policy implementation better and promoting the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s maritime industry,” according to the city's Chief Executive John Lee Meanwhile, Hong Kong is enhancing its
tax measures, including the introduction of tax deduction on ship acquisition costs for ship lessors under an operating lease.
“To drive the development of maritime services, we also propose to provide halfrate tax concession to eligible commodity traders. We will introduce a bill into LegCo in the first half of next year,” the government said.
Incentives
Additionally, incentives will be offered for ships meeting international decarbonisation standards, and an Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering will be launched to develop infrastructure for green fuel terminals.
Meanwhile, the chief executive highlighted the importance of creating a commodity trading ecosystem in Hong Kong, which will drive demand for maritime services and related financial offerings.
Meanwhile, the chief executive highlighted the importance of creating a commodity trading ecosystem in Hong Kong, which will drive demand for maritime services and related financial offerings.
Singapore seeks to create and redesign 1,000 roles in the industry by 2030
The board will strengthen relevant research
Other key areas include training programmes and development initiatives for employees (Photo from Maersk) India
Hong Kong
DNV releases ship recycling compliance guide
The guide details steps in proper disposal of hazardous materials present in ships.
The ship recycling process is a key contributor to a circular economy where materials and components may be reused or recycled. However, it needs careful planning for safe execution. Ships often contain hazardous materials that can pose significant risks to workers’ health, safety, and the environment if not managed properly. To mitigate these risks, shipowners must adopt a carefully planned strategy for responsibly handling the end of life of their vessels.
With thousands of ships expected to require recycling over the next decade, the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe
and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships (HKC) is an important step towards safer and more sustainable ship recycling.
Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, stated: “As the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, it is essential for shipowners to fully understand the scope of regulations established by the EU and IMO. These regulations aim to enhance the health and safety of workers whilst protecting the environment from pollution and the release of hazardous materials. The DNV guidance helps shipowners grasp the regulatory landscape and make informed decisions on the recycling of vessels.”
Hong Kong offers ship registry refunds
Refunds are issued if more than one eligible ship is registered.
Hong Kong's Marine Department is granting eligible ships refunds on fees and charges under the Block Registration Incentive Scheme following the amended Merchant Shipping (Registration) (Fees and Charges) Regulations.
The government said this is one of the measures set out in the Action Plan on Maritime & Port Development Strategy to support the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s maritime and port industry. If more than one eligible ship is registered with the Hong Kong Shipping Registry within 24 months, refunds of the ship registration fee and the first-year annual tonnage charge may be given for each ship. Each application can also cover ships with different owners and may be submitted by a shipowner, ship manager, or ship agent, the department said.
With the world’s fourth-largest ship registry by gross tonnage, the department said it is time to offer block registration
incentives as what other major maritime nations are doing to strengthen Hong Kong’s competitiveness.
Other projects
In addition, the government has also continued to strengthen connections with the Mainland through an official visit to Nanning in Guangxi, the southwestern gateway of the country.
Recently, the city has been actively building the “New Western Land-Sea Corridor,” connecting the southwestern region of the country with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations through both water and land routes through an international intermodal transport hub. Further, the government also visited the Nanning International Railway Port, Guangxi’s key departure point for important international freight trains, including the China-Vietnam and China-Europe freight trains.
The DNV guidance helps shipowners understand the regulatory landscape and make informed decisions on the recycling of vessels
In the EU, the Ship Recycling Regulation No. 1257/2013 (EU SRR) was implemented back in 2013, focusing mostly on safe waste management and sustainable ship recycling – it applies to all EU flagged ships. The HKC comes into effect in 2025, with compliance required by 2030, and applies to HKC ships* equal or above 500 gross tonnages (GT). It takes a global approach that brings social values into focus by implementing the UN’s human rights principles. DNV’s new guidance details the regulatory landscape and the various recycling options to give shipowners a better basis for making decisions on the recycling of their vessels.
HKC requirements
Twenty-four countries and the four largest recycling nations by tonnageIndia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Turkey - have ratified the HKC. Ships that need to comply must have an Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) for Parts I along with an onboard survey before being issued an International IHM Certificate. Update to the IHM (part II and III) and a final survey are required before a Ready for Recycling Certificate
(IRRC) can be issued. The ship should be sent for recycling at a facility that holds a Document of Authorisation for Ship Recycling (DASR) from its authority.
Tone Knudsen Fiskeseth, principal consultant at DNV, said: “Whilst undertaking inspections for the European Commission across several countries, we noted promising improvements in worker’s safety, environmental protection, IHM reporting, and hazardous materials handling.
Evolving regulations
With the HKC taking effect in 2025, shipowners need to understand how to comply and navigate a complex regulatory landscape that also includes the Basel Convention and the EU SRR.
Adhering to the HKC regulations and Basel guidelines on waste management supports a sustainable, circular economy whilst EU’s waste directives mandates/ push for further improvement to minimise environmental impact.
“It will be interesting to follow the technology innovations within ship dismantling and how they will impact on safety, capacity issues and sustainable recycling,” she added.
To assist shipowners in navigating the complex regulatory environment, DNV also offers a range of comprehensive services. These include approval and certification of Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM), class support to owners and advisory support to the European Commission on inspection of ship recycling facilities.
SG to boost maritime with cybersecurity upgrades
There were also pilot trials for two AI-driven applications.
Singapore
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is developing systems that will help streamline port and marine services, ensuring the it remains an attractive hub for maritime firms.
The MPA said one of the technologies it is developing is an artificial intelligenceenabled system to streamline port clearance processing. This will be introduced progressively over the next few years, aiming to reduce the processing time required for port clearance applications from up to three days to minutes, and also enhance the accuracy of data entry and verification.
There were also pilot trials for two AI-driven applications, DocuMind and DocuMatch, to test how these can help improve the accuracy and efficiency of insurance certificate renewals for ships.
MPA said adoption will expand to the whole of the industry by end-2025.
More initiatives
Singapore has also launched the Maritime Cyber Assurance and Operations Centre (MCAOC) for real-time security monitoring and disseminating information, helping companies immediately address cyber threats. This is expected to help companies save an estimated $200,000 annually by pooling cyber monitoring and information scanning capabilities. To date, 16 companies have come on board MCAOC.
MPA also plans to allocate more sea-space for companies to conduct technology trials. This is expected to attract global marinetech players and start-ups to establish and grow a local presence in Singapore.
Some of the technology solutions that can be trialled include autonomous flotsam collection, robotic hull cleaning, smart and remote harbour craft operations, and maritime drone inspection and delivery. Meanwhile, MPA said the Maritime Drone Estate will be renovated to accommodate more and larger-sized drones to support a wider range of services and trials. Launched in 2021, this aims to support the development of drone technologies and concept of operations for maritime use cases.
In terms of 5G, MPA said five Maritime 5G base stations have been so far installed and operationalised as of 2024. Up to seven will come online by 2025 to complete Maritime 5G coverage in all our major fairways, anchorages, terminals and boarding grounds.
This is the world’s first industrialgrade simulation platform, equipped with propulsion, machinery, power, and navigational bridge systems, to provide cybersecurity training and support cybersecurity solutions testing in a realistic environment.
Hong Kong
Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime
Pyxis charts the course towards a greener, sustainable maritime
By 2030, the company aims to lead Asia Pacific in coastal electrification.
From 2030 onwards, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will mandate that all new harbour crafts should be capable of being fully electric or powered by net-zero emission fuels such as B100 biofuel or hydrogen. This bold move propels the maritime industry towards the ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Sharing the same ambition, maritime tech start-up Pyxis, has charted the course towards promoting a decarbonised, cleaner, and greener maritime by offering electric vessels to fleets across the Singapore waters and beyond.
“Pyxis, a maritime electrification accelerator, was founded to allow existing maritime companies to seamlessly electrify and decarbonise their fleet,” Tommy Phun, CEO and Founder of Pyxis told Marine & Industrial Report.
“The name “Pyxis” is Latin, and it represents a mariner’s compass. That’s our vision, per se, to try to create a greener, cleaner maritime future for generations to come,” said Phun, who is well-versed in the maritime industry, with a background rooted in a 30-yearold family shipping business.
“[In our family business,] we operate and own vessels, and we have our own shipyard. But about three years ago, we received a lot of pressure from our customers to provide a greener solution,” he said.
The absence of widely available green solutions in the market made it challenging for Phun's company to qualify for certain tenders. This prompted them to step up and pave the way for that “green solution” not just for the family business but also for the entire maritime industry of Singapore.
“So, that's one of the reasons why Pyxis was founded,” said Phun.
“The pressure became quite real and we realised that if we don’t do anything about it, five years, 10 years down the road, we risk becoming irrelevant,” he recalled. “We also realised that the same
Our vision is to try to create a greener, cleaner maritime future for generations to come
problem that [our] family business is facing is the exact same issues that so many other companies in Singapore and Asia are facing."
In Singapore, there are 1,600 coastal vessels operating by the port, all of which need to adopt sustainable solutions in the immediate future and Pyxis aims to expedite this transition.
Solution in 3 Es Pyxis offers a one-stop solution for existing maritime companies through its three Es: Electric vessel, Energy, and Electra.
“We are building and developing electric vessels with a very high degree of product market fit,” Phun said in an exclusive interview.
“A lot of us in the Pyxis team come from the maritime industry. A lot of us are second-generation and third-generation business owners of maritime companies. So we build vessels, and we operate vessels on a very consistent basis. So we know exactly how these vessels need to be built and how they should be operated,” he said.
Pyxis’ second unit is Pyxis Energy, which was created a year ago to provide electricity and energy to mitigate the costs of powering coastal vessels.
“Right now, one of the biggest operating costs for coastal vessels is fuel. But as we electrify the new [vessels], the biggest operating costs will then become electricity. So Pyxis Energy is setting up in order to power the infrastructure to charge these vessels,” Phun told the publication.
The last E is Electra, which is Pyxis’ IoT-enabled software designed to manage digitalised
PRASANNA ELLANTI
Managing Director - Strategy & Consulting, Accenture
JOHNNY
ANDERSON
Strategist, Supply Chain and Operations practice Accenture
SARAH BANKS
Managing Director, Accenture
Navigating new horizons: Why modernising maritime ports matters
Imagine a port where longshore personnel, empowered by artificial intelligence (AI), can coordinate autonomous cranes to unload mega-container ships with real-time data shared seamlessly between terminal operators, shipping lines and customs agencies. In the background, secure blockchain technology ensures transparent tracking, giving customs agents real-time cargo updates. Intuitive and interoperable platforms help coordinate pilotage, towage, bunker services and supplies more efficiently—reducing time ships spend at anchorages. There are fewer bottlenecks, higher cargo volumes, and safer employees.
data from electric vessels. It holds Pyxis’ onboard vessel management system.
“[Electra] allows us to achieve huge gains in productivity compared to traditional dieselbased maritime. So the three E’s that form Pyxis make us an effective solution for existing maritime companies to seamlessly adopt electric vessels. And that is what makes us different,” Phun told Marine & Industrial Report.
Through these three subsidiaries, Pyxis generates profit. Aside from capitalising on the electric vessels they build for sale and for lease, Pyxis sells power through Pyxis Energy, which provides the energy infrastructure and marine charging station that charges customers per kwh.
Lastly, Electra generates revenue by offering services such as crew management, dynamic electricity pricing, carbon emission reporting and accountability, as well as predictive maintenance, amongst others.
Vessels
Despite being in the industry for only three years, Pyxis already boasts a net order book of 13 vessels, rapidly accelerating the business's growth.
One of these vessels, named the X Tron, is the first in a series of fully electric passenger transfer vessels known as Pyxis One. It will be chartered by York Launch, a Singapore-based boat operator.
X Tron was launched at the Clifford Pier in March 2024, during the “Past, Present and Future of Maritime Singapore” event attended by representatives from the Maritime Port Authority and Enterprise Singapore.
“The event is something that we are really proud of, because it signifies the past, [as] we will be bringing maritime veterans together in the present, and as an entire community, we sail towards the future,” Phun said.
Ports like Singapore and Rotterdam are already leading this future, where smart sensors and AI-driven logistics enable efficient, sustainable and resilient operations. However, despite the clear benefits of modernisation, many ports are still struggling to get there. Recognising and addressing the challenges of modernisation through digitisation is essential to meeting the demands of the future. Ports that dismiss reinvention and fall behind risk being bypassed by shipping lines.
Anchoring to ecosystems
High costs, operational disruption, siloed legacy systems, and data-sharing concerns are common challenges in many industries. But when they are affecting ports, they can have significant global repercussions. During the Suez Canal blockage in 2021, an estimated $9.6b in global trade was disrupted every day. Partnerships across the maritime ecosystem enabled by digital tools can bolster the resilience of global supply chains—and port authorities are uniquely positioned to drive this collaboration.
Ports that dismiss reinvention and fall behind risk being bypassed by shipping lines
Starting from building clear business cases tailored to each party’s goals, ports can align their stakeholders and establish trust around shared objectives. This will form the foundation for an interoperable system and ambitious modernisation with security embedded at every level. Crucial to that is establishing a strong “digital core”—a shared technology capability that brings together key components like cloud, data, AI, and security to drive reinvention and enables organisations to adapt swiftly to change.
Examples such as Maritime Port Authority of Singapore’s Just-in-Time (JIT) platform or Port of Rotterdam’s PortXchange, which helped generate a 20% reduction in wait times, showcase how successful partnerships depend on data sharing. Not all data needs to be shared, and leveraging technologies such as decentralised blockchain can ensure transparency and traceable access management. Moreover, although it might seem counterintuitive, data-sharing can actually improve cybersecurity—helping to identify risks through shared intelligence, resources, and best practices. Better coordination between ports, ocean carriers, and terminals can in turn enhance resilience of global supply chains.
Putting workforce at the heart of change
For digital modernisation to succeed, ports cannot impose new technologies on workforces and expect their buy-in. They must engage the people who will use the new tools every day—turning potential resistance into enthusiasm.
CEO Tommy Phun and the Pyxis team (Photo from Pyxis)
Singapore
