SkipperDesk Bulletin - 22.04.2026
A container ship has been fired on in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in heavy damage to the bridge, according to Seatrade Maritime. This incident marks the fourth vessel to be fired on by Iran since the Strait of Hormuz was closed again at the weekend. Additionally, eight container ships have managed to escape the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz, with six owned by MSC and two others, although four
General Maritime News
A container ship has been fired on in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in heavy damage to the bridge, according to Seatrade Maritime. This incident marks the fourth vessel to be fired on by Iran since the Strait of Hormuz was closed again at the weekend. Additionally, eight container ships have managed to escape the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz, with six owned by MSC and two others, although four CMA CGM ships were forced to turn back. The situation in the region remains tense, with President Donald Trump extending the current ceasefire with Iran while maintaining the US maritime blockade.
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 International Maritime Organization is also working on an evacuation plan for hundreds of ships stuck in the Persian Gulf. Furthermore, the National Maritime Center has updated its status, with civilian staff returning to work, although Regional Examination Centers remain closed. The US Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security are still without an appropriation providing full fiscal year 2026 funding.
Port & Marina News
Portland Port in the UK has received full approval to carry out liquefied natural gas ship-to-ship transfers. Two more marinas have joined the Premier Marinas network, expanding its reach across the South Coast. Weymouth and Portland Marinas have been integrated into the Premier Marinas South Coast network, providing a wider cruising network for users. Moreover, RMK Marine has begun construction on a new yacht shipyard in Yalova, Turkey, which is expected to become one of the largest shipyard areas in Europe.
Shipyard & Shipbuilding Developments
Saipem has secured a new offshore contract with ExxonMobil, marking the eighth contract between the two companies. The Lazzara UHV 100 yacht has made its debut, delivering on its promise of higher volume in its size range. Vitters Shipyard is also working on a 174-foot sailing superyacht, Project SY 07, which is expected to be completed in under three years. Additionally, RMK Marine has started the construction process for a new yacht shipyard in Yalova, Turkey.
Maritime Safety & Restrictions
The Strait of Hormuz remains a high-risk area, with a container ship recently coming under fire. The International Maritime Organization is working on an evacuation plan for hundreds of ships stuck in the Persian Gulf. Immersion suits are being developed to provide faster protection in emergency situations, and the importance of two-stroke engine monitoring has been highlighted to prevent engine trouble. Furthermore, the Liberia Maritime Authority has issued a circular to reinforce mandatory safety requirements and operational controls related to electrical hazards onboard vessels.
Energy, Environment & Sustainability
The Port of Long Beach, Port of Los Angeles, and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore have renewed their green shipping directive. Corvus Energy will supply batteries for seven new electric ferries commissioned by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited. The use of liquefied natural gas for ship-to-ship transfers has been approved at Portland Port in the UK. Moreover, the ICOMIA Marinas Group is discussing digital transformation as a catalyst for sustainability in the recreational boating industry.
Cargo & Trade
Nakilat's first-quarter profit has held despite challenges in the Gulf, with the company beginning cost-cutting and damage limitation measures across multiple businesses. Eight container ships have escaped the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz, although four CMA CGM ships were forced to turn back. The situation in the region remains tense, with President Donald Trump extending the current ceasefire with Iran while maintaining the US maritime blockade.
General Assessment
The maritime industry is currently facing several challenges, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the need for increased sustainability and environmental awareness. Despite these challenges, the industry is continuing to innovate and adapt, with new technologies and practices being developed to improve safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The importance of international cooperation and regulation is also being highlighted, with organizations such as the International Maritime Organization working to develop and implement new safety and environmental standards. Overall, the industry is moving towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact while continuing to meet the needs of global trade and commerce.