SkipperDesk Bulletin - 18.04.2026
Aygaz, a Turkish LPG distributor, has signed a deal with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for two dual-fuel LPG carriers, each with a capacity of about 90,000 cu m. This move marks a significant step for Aygaz as it expands its presence in the deepsea gas shipping sector. Meanwhile, Himalaya Shipping has secured a fresh premium index-linked charter for its newcastlemax bulker, Mount Emai, which will tr
General Maritime News
Aygaz, a Turkish LPG distributor, has signed a deal with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for two dual-fuel LPG carriers, each with a capacity of about 90,000 cu m. This move marks a significant step for Aygaz as it expands its presence in the deepsea gas shipping sector. Meanwhile, Himalaya Shipping has secured a fresh premium index-linked charter for its newcastlemax bulker, Mount Emai, which will trade at a premium to the wider capesize market. The charter is set to commence in the first half of May and will last for 12 to 14 months.
Regulation & Compliance Updates
The National Maritime Center has issued new guidance amid the government shutdown, announcing that all Regional Examination Centers will remain closed until further notice. Customer walk-in services at these centers have been suspended, and examinations and evaluations are currently on hold. Additionally, the Liberia Maritime Authority has reinforced mandatory safety requirements and operational controls related to electrical hazards onboard vessels, emphasizing the importance of proper use, handling, relocation, and isolation of portable electrical equipment.
Port & Marina News
The Port of Long Beach has reported a significant increase in cargo volume, moving the most cargo in North America in March and through the first quarter of 2026. CMA CGM has launched expansion work at Gemalink's container terminal at Cai Mep port in southern Vietnam, which is expected to increase the terminal's capacity from 1.7m teu to approximately 3m teu by 2027. Premier Marinas has also expanded its network, integrating Weymouth and Portland Marinas into its South Coast operations.
Shipyard & Shipbuilding Developments
Fincantieri has launched the Norwegian Aura at its Monfalcone shipyard, marking a significant milestone in the vessel's construction. The ship is now entering its final outfitting and interior finishing phase. Abeking & Rasmussen has unveiled its first semi-custom superyacht concept, ARUBY, which measures 230 feet in length. RMK Marine has begun construction on a new yacht shipyard, highlighting the growth of the shipbuilding industry in the region.
Maritime Safety & Restrictions
Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open, but ships must coordinate their transits with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Despite this announcement, many vessel owners remain cautious, awaiting further confirmation before navigating the strait. The US Naval blockade remains in force, and the situation is being closely monitored by the international maritime community. The International Maritime Center has also warned of potential debris in the water as a possible cause of barge breakaways, highlighting the need for vigilance and safety measures in maritime operations.
Energy, Environment & Sustainability
The world's first global shipping carbon price talks are set to resume at the UN, with negotiations focusing on introducing a landmark climate agreement to reduce shipping's reliance on fossil fuels. Dajin Heavy Industry has signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement with Zhengli Marine Engineering to retrofit vessels for the European offshore wind market. Petrobras has expanded its oil and gas portfolio with a new exploration block off the coast of São Tomé and Príncipe, Africa, highlighting the ongoing demand for fossil fuels.
Cargo & Trade
Ernst Russ has entered the tanker sector with the purchase of resold vessels from Wuhu Shipyard, marking a significant step in the company's diversification strategy. CMA CGM has announced plans to nearly double the capacity of its joint-venture terminal in Cai Mep, Vietnam, to 3 million teu. The expansion is expected to increase trade volumes and strengthen the company's presence in the region.
General Assessment
The maritime industry is experiencing significant developments, from expansions in shipbuilding and port operations to growing concerns over safety and environmental sustainability. As the world's first global shipping carbon price talks resume, the industry is poised for a major shift towards reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. Meanwhile, companies like Aygaz and CMA CGM are investing in new vessels and infrastructure, highlighting the ongoing demand for maritime trade and transportation. As the industry navigates these changes, it is likely to face both opportunities and challenges, from adapting to new regulations and technologies to addressing the ongoing need for safety and sustainability.