SkipperDesk Bulletin - 19.04.2026
Aygaz, a Turkish LPG distributor, has signed a deal with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for two dual-fuel LPG carriers, adding to its very large gas carrier program in South Korea. The vessels will have a capacity of about 90,000 cu m each. Meanwhile, Himalaya Shipping has secured a charter for its newcastlemax, keeping the LNG dual-fuel bulker trading at a premium to the wider capesize market. The 2
General Maritime News
Aygaz, a Turkish LPG distributor, has signed a deal with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for two dual-fuel LPG carriers, adding to its very large gas carrier program in South Korea. The vessels will have a capacity of about 90,000 cu m each. Meanwhile, Himalaya Shipping has secured a charter for its newcastlemax, keeping the LNG dual-fuel bulker trading at a premium to the wider capesize market. The 2024-built 210,000 dwt Mount Emai has secured a charter for 12 to 14 months, starting in the first half of May.
Regulation & Compliance Updates
The Liberia Maritime Authority has issued a circular to reinforce mandatory safety requirements and operational controls related to electrical hazards onboard vessels. The authority emphasizes the use, handling, relocation, and isolation of portable electrical equipment. Additionally, the 2010 HNS Convention has moved closer to entry into force, with four states depositing their instruments of ratification. The International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea is expected to enter into force soon.
Port & Marina News
CMA CGM has launched expansion work at Gemalink’s container terminal at Cai Mep port in southern Vietnam, where the company holds a 25% stake. The terminal’s capacity will increase from 1.7m teu to approximately 3m teu, with full completion expected in 2027. Premier Marinas has taken Weymouth and Portland Marinas under its wing, creating a wider cruising network across the South Coast. The Port of Long Beach has moved the most cargo in North America in March and through the first quarter of 2026.
Shipyard & Shipbuilding Developments
Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line have celebrated the launch of Norwegian Aura at the Monfalcone shipyard, marking the transition to the final outfitting and interior finishing phase of the vessel. RMK Marine has started construction on a new yacht shipyard, while Bodrum has seen the launch of a 50.5-meter sailing yacht after seven years of construction. Corvus Energy has secured an order to supply battery systems for seven fully electric ferries commissioned by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited.
Maritime Safety & Restrictions
The Strait of Hormuz has been the scene of uncertainty, with Iran saying it will not remain open if the US blockade continues. Several oil tankers have u-turned in the Persian Gulf after appearing to try to transit the Strait of Hormuz. India has expressed deep concern over the attack on two Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The US Coast Guard has announced that the first two Arctic Security Cutter icebreakers will be homeported in Alaska.
Energy, Environment & Sustainability
The world’s first global shipping carbon price talks are back at the UN’s bargaining table, with negotiations on a landmark climate agreement set to resume. The talks aim to introduce a global carbon price on any polluter and help curb 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.
Cargo & Trade
Himalaya Shipping has secured a charter for its newcastlemax, keeping the LNG dual-fuel bulker trading at a premium to the wider capesize market. The 2024-built 210,000 dwt Mount Emai has secured a charter for 12 to 14 months, starting in the first half of May. CMA CGM has launched expansion work at Gemalink’s container terminal at Cai Mep port in southern Vietnam, where the company holds a 25% stake. The Port of Long Beach has moved the most cargo in North America in March and through the first quarter of 2026.
General Assessment
The maritime industry is witnessing significant developments, from the expansion of container terminals to the launch of new vessels. The Strait of Hormuz remains a point of contention, with Iran and the US at odds over the blockade. The industry is also shifting towards sustainability, with talks on a global shipping carbon price and efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely to face new challenges and opportunities, from the growth of offshore wind to the increasing importance of digital transformation. Overall, the maritime industry is poised for significant change, driven by technological innovation, shifting global dynamics, and the need for sustainable practices.