The Maritime Advocate is free to readers and is entirely supported by advertisers and sponsors. A banner advertisement represents excellent value so please consider using us whenever you have a commercial message to place. We have banner opportunities on our website https://themaritimeadvocate.com and are also on the lookout for new sponsors. If you wish to get a quote please email us at contactus@themaritimeadvocate.com for details.
IN THIS ISSUE
1. What’s for dinner?
2. ICS Secretary General
3. Indian Register
4. Intercargo year
5. IACS rules
6. Carbon capture
7. LNG
8. Pump failures
9. Expertly separated
10. 3D design
Notices & Miscellany
Readers’ responses to our articles are very welcome and, where suitable, will be reproduced. Write to: contactus@themaritimeadvocate.com
1. What’s for dinner?
By Michael Grey
It was very many years ago, at a Mission to Seafarers’ conference, when I was commenting on sub-standard shipping (there was a lot of it about then) I made reference to some cheapskate operator I had heard about who provided his wretched crews with a tin of pilchards every second day as their sole sustenance. It got a laugh from the assembled delegates, but in the following coffee break I was somewhat deflated when a chaplain from some grim port in a deprived part of the world quietly pointed out that to many seafarers where he ministered, such would have been unimaginable luxury to people whose access to nutritious food was distinctly limited.
It made me consider lunch in a rather different light. I have thought of this kindly intervention off and on over the years, usually when reading about the detention by Port State Control of some awful ship when the crew was discovered to be living in squalor, with the food supplies infested, long out of date and affording little nutrition to people supposed to be working hard, long hours. In an earlier age, we would have just dismissed such accounts as “different ships- different long splices,” or make some remark about “the poor always being with us.” Well within my memory, there were North East coast tramp owners, which were notorious for their feeding rates of a few pence per day and half a bucket of water for both drinking and washing, if you were lucky.
You might suggest that things have changed a great deal in the last few decades, with so much more supervision by port regulators, the implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 and a whole host of regulatory changes that reflect the expectations of society in general. But rust buckets still stray into ports where their responsibilities are taken seriously and there are regular reminders that there remains a sizeable portion of the world fleet which operates at the bottom of the food chain.
The UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency is thinking about these matters in a current consultation on the latest amendments to MLC 2006, which have specific references to food provided aboard ship and the need for a “balanced diet”, which could feature in future regulation. You might say that defining such a requirement might be difficult. I remember talking to the Chief Steward on a Channel ferry who said that his customers, mainly road hauliers, would not touch any form of food that had not been deep fried. His attempts to present them with fresh vegetables, fruit or fibre had been studiously ignored in favour of maximum grease and he had rather lost heart. The MCA, bless them, suggest that the proper diet for a healthy, 21st century seafarer should provide a mix of carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre, vitamins and minerals and of course these things do matter a great deal for ongoing health.
In the accompanying notes it also references the Seafarers’ Happiness Index, which has revealed concerns about cutbacks in food budgets and a diet that was “unhealthy, monotonous and of poor quality.” Perhaps some things never change, which is why the regulators need to open the fridge door on their visits and specific regulation needs to take over from mere guidance. The consultation also includes important items on some of the lessons that were learned during the Covid-19 crisis, not least the importance of crew connectivity, and remaining in regular touch with friends and families through social media and messaging apps. There surely cannot be any argument about this, although making such essentials mandatory will give rise to the issue of who pays for such facilities. However, this must be less of an issue, as such connectivity has become infinitely cheaper and more easily available. But when considering these matters, the spirits of those old hard-nosed tramp owners come wafting back.
Another important matter for the amendments revolves around the vexed questions of financial accountability, which came to the fore during the pandemic when so many crews found themselves abandoned. The consultation document suggests that there should be a more robust system of clarifying exactly who is financially accountable for a vessel and how crew members can protect themselves from monetary loss in the event of the failure of an owner or recruitment and placement agency. Such information it suggests, should be readily accessible when a vessel is inspected. All of which would appear to be sensible, except that in this strange international industry, extraordinary efforts are sometimes made to conceal detains of ownership and ultimate financial responsibility. Something of a sea change (if you will pardon the reference) may be required in the implementation of this item.
This is obviously the last item of 2024 and seemed more fitting than the usual annual review which will just make readers bored. Very best wishes for the coming year, regardless of all those black swans just over the horizon.
Michael Grey is former editor of Lloyd’s List.
2. ICS secretary general
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has appointed Thomas Kazakos as its next Secretary General. Kazakos will replace Guy Platten who will be stepping down in June 2025. Kazakos has been the Director General of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, the representative National-Member Association of Cyprus at ICS, since 1995.
Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping said: “After a thorough search and interview process my board is delighted to confirm the appointment of Thomas Kazakos to this important position for our industry. The coming decade will be pivotal for our industry, and it was important that we got the right person to lead ICS. Thomas brings a wealth of experience of the ICS community and the entire shipping industry. He is the ideal candidate to build on the great work that Guy has delivered over the past six plus years.
“Through Guy’s leadership ICS has been at the forefront of developments in our industry, be that decarbonisation, energy transition, safety or seafarer welfare. I am grateful to him for his professionalism both in leading ICS and for the continuity plan that he has put in place to ensure that ICS continues to lead our industry in the decades to come. Guy will leave ICS in a robust state, both in the way it leads the agenda on so many issues, and in having sound finances.”
Thomas Kazakos said: “I am very proud to have been selected to become the next Secretary General of ICS taking over from Guy next June. In my role with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, I have seen first-hand and have contributed to the vital work that ICS undertakes. The coming years will be ones of significant change for our industry and members, and it is vital that we have a strong and resilient organisation to ably represent their views. The IMO’s decarbonisation agenda is obviously front and centre for our industry and I know ICS is working closely with the IMO, governments and other stakeholders, to develop a credible system to support the transition. But there is so much more to do and I am excited to be given this opportunity to lead the amazing team at ICS and to work with our members as we address the many challenges that our industry encounters.”
3. Indian Register
Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) has been looking back over the past year, with achievements across sustainability, innovation, and maritime safety. From spearheading decarbonisation projects to reviving India’s maritime heritage, IRS has reinforced its leadership role in the global maritime sector, it said in a statement.
“In line with global sustainability goals, IRS achieved significant milestones in decarbonisation and technology. It classed a next-generation electric ferry, furthering the push for cleaner maritime transport. A landmark collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders saw the successful demonstration of an Autonomous Navigation System with dual navigation capabilities, signalling a step forward in maritime innovation. Additionally, IRS partnered with IIT Bombay to develop a ship trajectory prediction tool aimed at improving navigational safety. In another significant move, IRS joined forces with Cochin Shipyard Limited on the ambitious “Swayat” project, towards the development of India’s first indigenously designed autonomous vessel.”
The year 2024 has been transformative for IRS, marking a significant rise in classification and allied technical services for Indian Defence and Paramilitary forces. Key milestones include the launch of four shallow-water Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvettes, a Semi-Submersible Pontoon, two Pollution Control Vessels, and the delivery of a Survey Vessel (Large).
IRS has expanded its scope to complex projects, including six New Generation Missile Vessels at Cochin Shipyard, five Fleet Support Ships at Hindustan Shipyard, and 11 New Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels at GRSE and GSL. Additionally, six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, a Cadet Training Ship, and 14 Fast Patrol Vessels will be built at Mazagon Dock, Mumbai. Notably, IRS provided third-party inspection services for a submarine undergoing refit at HSL, a first for any classification society in India.
IRS continues to enhance its technical capabilities, notably in underwater radiated noise prediction and autonomous vessel certification. It is also supporting the indigenisation of defence equipment, aligning with India’s Swavlambit Bharat (Self-Reliant India) mission.
There has been significant progress in its partnership with Dassault Systèmes to implement the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. The project is currently undergoing trials and validations, with promising outcomes. The platform is expected to go live by Q2 2025, marking a major step forward in digital transformation and operational efficiency.
IRS’ focus on industry partnerships was evident through a series of strategic MOUs. Collaborations with SeaTech, Singapore, and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers focused on the development of autonomous and green energy vessels. An agreement with the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research advanced the design of specialised ocean research vessels. Furthermore, IRS’ association with Marin, Netherlands, provided cutting-edge hydrodynamic studies and model testing for new construction projects, showcasing its commitment to technological excellence.
The year also saw IRS’ active involvement in reviving India’s rich maritime heritage. IRS played a pivotal role in the “Stitched Ship Project,” offering its technical expertise to support the construction of a vessel using ancient shipbuilding techniques. Blending tradition with modern maritime standards, this initiative celebrates India’s cultural legacy.
A new leadership in 2024, with P.K. Mishra assuming the role of Managing Director and T.K. Sahu stepping in as Joint Managing Director signals the organisation’s renewed drive to the next phase of growth and innovation.
Looking ahead to 2025, IRS is committed to building on the successes of 2024 by driving sustainability and innovation. With a sharp focus on green technologies, alternative fuels, and autonomous systems, the organisation is poised to lead the way in creating a more efficient and sustainable maritime ecosystem. Additionally, IRS is focused on strengthening its capabilities, expanding its geographical footprint and strengthening global outreach to cater to a broader clientele and foster international collaboration.
“With a strong legacy of five decades and a forward-thinking approach, IRS is ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities of 2025. Our goal is to continue advancing maritime excellence while fostering sustainability, and innovation,” said Mr. Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of IRS.
4. Intercargo year
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO looked back on a transformative year in its 2023-2024 Annual Review, launching major initiatives while reaching record membership levels amid growing industry challenges.
Outgoing Chairman Dimitri Fafalios reflected on key developments during 2024, including the August launch of the Dry Bulk Centre of Excellence (DBCE) and its DryBMS portal, demonstrating the sector’s dedication to operational excellence. The Association marked another milestone with its first-ever report communicating its messaging via ESG and showcasing progress in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and governance.
Safety maintained its position as the foremost priority, with the latest Bulk Carrier Casualty Report revealing positive trends in ship loss reduction despite fleet growth. However, the organisation emphasised that continued vigilance remains essential, particularly regarding cargo liquefaction risks.
The review addresses critical challenges, including the implementation of the International Maritime Organization’s net-zero emissions target, maritime security concerns in the Red Sea region, and the implementation of the Ballast Water Management Convention.
The publication is available at https://www.intercargo.org and offers detailed insights into the Association’s technical work, policy positions and stakeholder engagement throughout the year.
5. IACS rules
The IACS Council met in London at C90 recently scheduling new dates for the introduction of revised Common Structural Rules, welcoming the establishment of the Interational Quality Assessment Review Body (IQARB) as a legally constituted body and acknowledging the significant number of safety related outputs successfully delivered in 2024.
IACS revisions to the Common Structural Rules (CSR) are part of its continual ‘class cycle’ of review and improvement. C90 reaffirmed IACS’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards to ensure safety, structural integrity, and environmental protection, and meet the Goal-Based Standards (GBS) requirement for continuous improvement set by the IMO. The basis for revisions to CSR (including new wave loads, and other subsequent rule changes) will be more transparent and accurate as they are based on more scientific and validated data and include a more comprehensive and technically sound background compared to the existing CSR.
The IACS Council recognised that it is vital that CSR revisions are made with all stakeholders in mind, and as part of a truly collaborative process. Revisions to the CSR will undergo an extensive scrutiny process by all stakeholders which is intentionally designed to be inclusive and transparent, allowing for widespread consultation with flag states, shipowners and shipyards. To facilitate this process, and to smooth the subsequent introduction, C90 decided to allow additional time for the development and implementation of the new CSR to allow all concerned sufficient time to comment, engage and adapt without undue pressure.
Accordingly, the new CSR are scheduled to be adopted by IACS Council on 1 July 2027 and to enter into force on 1 July 2029.
On other matters at C90, IACS Council warmly welcomed the incorporation of IQARB into a legal entity capable of delivering a common, independent, fully transparent and trusted mechanism which flag States can utilise as a tool to supplement their oversight of their ROs. Such an approach benefits Member States and maritime safety and the protection of the marine environment by allowing IMO Member States to focus their time and resources on RO monitoring activities in targeted areas and on specific safety and environmental matters pertaining to their flagged ships.
C90 also reaffirmed IACS’ ongoing commitment to safety across the board and noted that, at MSC 109 alone, IACS provided 20% of all action papers submitted, covering major safety agenda items, including GBS, MASS, safe decarbonisation, FSA, IGC and IGF Codes, and radio.
This focus on safety was also emphasised at the traditional meeting of the IACS Council with industry where updates were provided on IACS’ work related to safe decarbonisation (especially Carbon Capture and Storage) and a safe digital transformation (data quality, MASS and Complex Systems amongst others) as well as the Association’s new strategic commitment to enhancing its focus on the human element particularly through its commitment to human centred design.
Commenting on discussions at C90, IACS Council Chair, Roberto Cazzulo, said ‘Safety related matters dominated the agenda. In a world where new technologies and fuels proliferate, managing their safe implementation and integration with the crews who sail the ships has never been more necessary. Everything starts with safe design and IACS’ revised CSR will facilitate the introduction of novel designs while our focus on human centred design will address human risk and improve ship system interfaces’.
6. Carbon capture
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) is partnering with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI), a leading global shipbuilding and offshore engineering company, to develop Floating CO2 Storage Units (FCSU) and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects in the Republic of Korea, with the aim to significantly reduce green house gas emissions.
The collaboration will centre on validating and certifying cutting-edge CCS technologies that are cost-effective and sustainable. By blending BV’s renowned certification expertise with SHI’s innovative, market-leading technology, this partnership aims to set new industry standards and accelerate the deployment of CCS solutions that can drive a greener, more efficient future.
BV and SHI will also collaborate on pilot projects to test the commercial potential of CCS technologies. BV will use its certification expertise to handle technical reviews and independent risk assessments. Additionally, they will conduct environmental studies and develop risk management plans to ensure the safety and sustainability of CCS projects.
Alex Gregg-Smith, Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific (APA) at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore said: “Our partnership with SHI is an important step in our efforts to support the deployment of innovative carbon capture and storage technologies. By combining our expertise, we aim to advance the commercialization of FCSU and CCS solutions, which are critical for achieving global climate goals.”
Haeki Jang, Chief Technology Officer, Samsung Heavy Industries added: “This collaboration marks a significant step towards realizing our vision of a sustainable future. By leveraging the strengths of both SHI and BV, we are committed to accelerating the deployment of carbon capture and storage solutions that meet the evolving demands of the global maritime and offshore industries. Together, we aim to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world through the development of advanced CCS technologies.”
7. LNG
Industry coalition SEA-LNG analysis suggestss that LNG dual-fuelled vessels provide the lowest compliance cost for meeting EU and IMO decarbonisation regulations, the coalition says.
Using Z-Joule’s POOL.FM, SEA-LNG has undertaken analysis based on a modelled mid-sized, 14,000 TEU container vessel. This analysis is in the form of both a single vessel and also an eight-vessel fleet operating the Rotterdam – Singapore trade route over the period 2025 to 2040. The full white paper is available for download here.
The analysis focuses on the LNG, methanol, and ammonia fuel pathways and compares their compliance costs against the default of using VLSFO (very low sulphur fuel oil). The analysis uses the specifications for main and auxiliary engines published by the main marine engine manufacturers MAN ES, Wärtsilä and WinDG.
The study indicates that LNG, methanol, and ammonia dual-fuel engine technologies can reduce compliance costs compared with VLSFO, with LNG dual-fuel vessels providing a significantly lower cost compliance solution. The basis for this is that the LNG pathway offers immediate greenhouse gas reductions now and in the future compared with the other fuel choices. The use of LNG also dramatically reduces SOx, NOx and Particulate Matter (PM), thereby avoiding the use of relatively expensive MGO (marine gas oil) for ECA (Emission Control Area) compliance.
In terms of fleet operations, for an eight-vessel fleet with two alternatively fuelled “balancing vessels,” the overall cost of compliance with LNG will be between $5 million and $17 million per annum lower than other alternative fuels such as methanol and ammonia. Further, as FuelEU Maritime is implemented from 2025 onwards, fleet operators using ammonia and methanol dual-fuel vessels are likely to need significant quantities of expensive green fuels in an effort to avoid very high penalty charges.
Commenting on the analysis, Steve Esau, Chief Operating Officer at SEA-LNG, said, “As greenhouse gas emissions become subject to increasingly stringent regulation, the industry needs cost-effective solutions to meet its decarbonisation goals. Today, this study clearly illustrates that the LNG pathway is a cost-effective way to meet regulatory compliance targets now and in the future.”
Fernando Alvarez, Founder of Z-Joule, said, “Intuition and simple rules of thumb are no longer sufficient when developing optimal regulatory compliance strategies. Sophisticated decision-support tools are needed to model the complex interaction between recent and forthcoming regulations, vessel operations, and commercial drivers. Z-Joule’s software provides the industry with a robust platform to explore and optimise their decarbonisation journey.
”POOL.FM is a fuel-agnostic model which utilises an advanced optimisation algorithm to determine the optimal fuel mix, pooling strategy, and target speed for each vessel in a fleet (or vessel pool). The regulations currently modelled include CII, ECAs, EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime and Onshore Power Supply (OPS) mandates. Functionality to model possible IMO Market Based Measures (MBM)s is already in place and will be refined as more details about the forthcoming regulations emerge.”
8. Pump failures
The failure of a cargo pump on board a newbuild tanker has highlighted the need for crews to regularly monitor rotating machinery for excessive wear and vibration, if unnecessary downtime and costs are to be prevented.
A German owner took delivery of a 2021-built chemical tanker from a Chinese yard in 2021, but the long shaft driving the cargo pump’s impeller was not correctly installed, destroying the pump beyond repair and delaying cargo loading operations.
CM Technologies’ (CMT) Sales Director Uwe Krüger cites other examples where ships’ pumps appeared to be in sound condition, but were in fact close to being written off.
“During the physical inspections of three pumps aboard a 58,000dwt containership, initial checks indicated acceptable values for balance and shaft alignment, but a second test using our Vibration Meter Marine immediately alerted the crew to a bearing close to seizure,” he said.
The bearings on all three cargo pumps were found to have the same potentially catastrophic pitting damage, requiring costly overhaul.
“Ships’ fire, freshwater, cargo, sewage and ballast water pumps are critical but often overlooked pieces of machinery,” said Krüger. “Yet, despite the importance of the humble pump to ship operations, rotating machinery is still often monitored and serviced only on fixed maintenance schedules. Pump failure can place the ship, cargo and crew at risk.”
CMT recommends that regular vibration analysis should start at system commissioning and continue throughout the operational life of the vessel. An on-going monitoring strategy is crucial to maintaining the service life of rotating equipment, troubleshooting problems, and preventing failures, and subsequent costs,” he said.
CMT’s Managing Director Matthias Winkler said: “A replacement bearing can cost as little as US$20. But finding out you needed one after the motor has burnt out could easily cost thousands of dollars to put right. And Murphy’s Law dictates that this is likely to happen in a Port Said or somewhere while the next available motor can be found in Rotterdam or Singapore, so you can add significant logistics and agent costs on top of that.”
Columbia Shipmanagement and Hamburg based shipping group RHL Reederei Hamburger Lloyd are just two shipping companies that have been using CMT´s Vibration Meter Marine since the product was unveiled in 2015.
“These ship managers wanted a monitoring system capable of immediate analysis of existing problems without requiring the user to have any special knowledge, explained Winkler. “Regular use of the system has alerted crews to bearing defects before breakdown, averting costly damages. The technology has already justified the investment.”
Vibration analysis provides insights into the most common cause of machinery damage and reduced service life. Bearing damage is particularly prevalent, caused by shaft misalignment, insufficient or incorrect lubrication and general wear and tear. Pump health can be easily assessed by analysing vibration.
“Crews of seagoing vessels are under constant stress, and crew changes occur at fixed intervals, so vibration monitoring devices need to be easy to use with measurement readings that are simple to understand by crew members with limited technical knowledge.
“Our Vibration Meter Marine is a powerful, expert system that provides on-the-spot usable results without the need to send information to shore for evaluation. Even beginners can understand what the readings are telling them,” said Winkler.
Alongside a range of vibration meters, monitors, software and analytical tools, CMT´s Vibration Meter Marine has been specifically designed for the harsh marine environment. The hand-held device, acceleration sensor, software, and accessories are delivered in a small, rugged case designed for easy storage in between usage.
The meter also includes a mode to monitor the lubricating performance of greased, water, or oil lubricated bearings in pumps and rotating machinery. As an option, data can be stored for trend analysis using the diagnostic software.
“Our goal is to provide crews and superintendents with a practical solution that will enable them to detect pump problems early and shift from fixed inspection schedules to more effective condition-based protocols. Vibration analysis does need to be part of the regular machinery checks crews make on their rounds.”
9. Expertly separated
In the latest edition Holman Fenwick Willan’s Stephanie Morton / and Brian Perrott consider a recent case in London Calling entitled Expertly Separated
Dandara South East Ltd v Medway Preservation Ltd [2024]
The matter concerned a contract for the sale of land which contained a condition precedent for certain earthworks to be carried out. The Claimant terminated the contract, alleging that the condition precedent had not been met, and commenced court proceedings to reclaim its deposit.
The Defendant sought a stay of proceedings on the basis that the contract contained an expert determination clause. The Claimant’s response was that, since the contract had been terminated, this provision no longer applied and that it was not separable from the contract.
The key provisions were as follows:
Clause 28 – Expert Determination: “any dispute or difference between the parties as to any matter under or in connection with this contract shall be submitted for the determination of an expert” and that expert determination was to be “conclusive and binding on the parties save in the case of manifest error or omission”.
Clause 31 – Jurisdiction: “each party irrevocably agrees that the courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with this contract or its subject matter or formation (including non-contractual disputes or claims)”.”
The English High Court considered the expert determination clause to be a “one-stop shop” requiring all disputes to be subject to expert determination. It held that the expert determination clause was separable from the underlying contract and so unaffected by termination. Its view was that the seeming conflict between Clause 28 and Clause 31 was resolved by interpreting Clause 31 as remaining applicable to disputes over a party’s failure to comply with Clause 28.
Comments
This matter involved a close analysis of the contractual language by the Court. The contract was unusual in that expert determination clauses are typically drafted to apply only to certain types of dispute. Nevertheless, the case establishes that the principle of separability will apply to expert determination clauses and that they will not be affected by termination of the contract.
Dandara South East Ltd v Medway Preservation Ltd [2024] EWHC 2318 (Ch)
10. 3D design
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a Joint Development Project (JDP) agreement with HD Hyundai Samho Co (HSHI) and Siemens Industry Software Ltd. (Siemens DISW) to implement a “3D model-based design approval” process using NX CAD.
The JDP will provide technical support for 3D model creation using NX CAD, which includes the integration of key drawing information into the 3D model, and establish a collaborative framework for 3D model-based design approval as part of this innovative new process.
This approach to model-based approval will serve as a foundation for the future of shipbuilding, supporting the industry’s digital transformation through Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE).
The JDP will leverage Siemens DISW’s NX CAD and Teamcenter, as well as Bureau Veritas’ VPM system. BV and HSHI will initially apply the 3D-based design approval process to a portion of the 174K LNG carrier currently under construction, with plans to expand it to all vessel types. The adoption of a model-based approval process will enhance information sharing with the classification society while leveraging the secured neutral format models for interpretation and simulation, ultimately accelerating the design approval process.
Alex Gregg-Smith, Senior Vice President, Asia Pacific (APA) at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “3D model-based approach lays the foundation for the adoption of digital transformation of classification in the shipbuilding industry. As the industry continues to embrace more sophisticated digital technologies, this project with HD Hyundai Samho and Simens DISW will serve as a valuable case study, demonstrating the benefits of seamless integration between design, approval, and production.”
Oh Min AHN, Executive Vice President of HD Hyundai Samho Co., Ltd, said: “Model-based design approval will accelerate the digital transformation of the shipbuilding industry by linking models created at the design stage to the production stage.”
Byung Joon OH, the Country Manager of Siemens Digital Industries Software Ltd, said: “Siemens Digital Industries Software is pleased to collaborate with HD Hyundai Samho and BV to co-create value through process innovation based on the Siemens Xcelerator platform and aspires to contribute to reinforcing the competitiveness of Korea’s shipbuilding industry.”
Notices and Miscellany
RINA conference
RINA 2025 Technical Conference on Managing CII and Associated Challenges
Dates: 21st-22nd January 2025
Location: IMO HQ, London
Twelve step internet recovery programme
Marine surveyor Manjit Handa had the following steps to add to those listed in the last edition.
13. That I will remember to smoke a cigarette after sex, rather than check my Facebook page.
14. That I’ll accept that I can’t be scrolling my social media while having a haircut.
Training course on freight & customs fundamentals
The British International Freight Association (BIFA) is launching a new educational initiative designed specifically for journalists and other staff working with the media who are newcomers to the freight and logistics sector.
The course, titled “Freight & Customs Fundamentals for Media Executives,” aims to bridge the knowledge gap and provide incoming staff with an understanding of the complexities of international trade, freight management and customs procedures. It is being launched in association with the Seahorse Freight Association.
The freight and logistics industry plays a pivotal role in the global economy, yet its intricacies often remain underexplored in mainstream media, BIFA says.
With the rise of supply chain disruptions, sustainability concerns, and technological advancements, accurate and informed reporting has never been more critical.
BIFA’s new course will address this by equipping incoming journalists and staff working with the media with the knowledge necessary to provide nuanced and insightful coverage of the sector.
For more information contact Carl Hobbis at c.hobbis@bifa.org.
Please notify the Editor of your appointments, promotions, new office openings and other important happenings: contactus@themaritimeadvocate.com
And finally,
With thanks to Paul Dixon
THE TRUTH
1) Triangular sandwiches taste better than square ones.
2) At the end of every party there is always a girl crying.
3) One of the most awkward things that can happen in a pub is when your pint-to-toilet cycle gets synchronized with a complete stranger.
4) You’re never quite sure whether it’s ok to eat green crisps.
5) Everyone who grew up in the 80’s has entered the digits 71077345 into a calculator.
6) Reading when you’re drunk is horrible.
7) Sharpening a pencil with a knife makes you feel really manly.
8) You’re never quite sure whether it’s against the law or not to have a fire in your back garden.
10) Nobody ever dares make cup a soup in a bowl.
11) You never know where to look when eating a banana.
12) It’s impossible to describe the smell of a wet cat.
13) Prodding a fire with a stick makes you feel manly.
14) Rummaging in an overgrown garden will always turn up a bouncy ball.
15) You always feel a bit scared when stroking horses.
16) Everyone always remembers the day a dog ran into your school.
17) The most embarrassing thing you can do as schoolchild is to call your teacher mum or dad.
18) The smaller the monkey the more it looks like it would kill you at the first given opportunity.
19) Some days you see lots of people on crutches.
20) Every bloke has at some stage while taking a pee flushed half way through and then raced against the flush.
21) Old women with mobile phones look wrong!
22) It’s impossible to look cool whilst picking up a Frisbee.
23) Driving through a tunnel makes you feel excited.
24) You never ever run out of salt.
25) Old ladies can eat more than you think.
26) You can’t respect a man who carries a dog.
27) There’s no panic like the panic you momentarily feel when you’ve got your hand or head stuck in something.
28) No one knows the origins of their metal coat hangers.
29) Despite constant warning, you have never met anybody who has had their arm broken by a swan.
30) The most painful household incident is wearing socks and stepping on an upturned plug.
31) People who don’t drive slam car doors too hard
32) You’ve turned into your dad the day you put aside a thin piece of wood specifically to stir paint with.
33) In every plate of chips there is a bad chip.
Thanks for Reading the Maritime Advocate online
Maritime Advocate Online is a fortnightly digest of news and views on the maritime industries, with particular reference to legal issues and dispute resolution. It is published to over 20,000 individual subscribers each edition and republished within firms and organisations all over the maritime world. It is the largest publication of its kind. We estimate it goes to around 60,000 readers in over 120 countries.
Editor: Sandra Speares | Email: contactus@themaritimeadvocate.com
SUBSCRIBE click here
