Cargo Vessel Intentionally Grounded Near Port Said After Water Ingress

Cargo Vessel Intentionally Grounded Near Port Said After Water Ingress The general cargo vessel FENER was deliberately grounded near Port Said after encountering a serious onboard emergency that left it at risk of sinking, according to maritime authorities. The incident occurred in the Mediterranean anchorage area near the northern entrance of the Suez Canal and prompted an immediate emergency response. Officials said the vessel began taking on water while at anchor, causing it to develop a noticeable list. With the ship’s stability compromised, the captain made the decision to move it away from the main anchorage and intentionally ground the vessel in shallow waters to prevent further flooding and potential loss of the ship. Maritime rescue units were quickly dispatched to the scene. Tugboats and fast-response craft assisted in securing the vessel and evacuating the crew. All seafarers on board were safely rescued, and one crew member received medical treatment for minor injuries before being released.

U.S. Seizes Tanker MT Veronica in Caribbean, Expanding Operation Against Venezuela’s Shadow Fleet

The United States has seized the oil tanker MT Veronica in the Caribbean Sea, marking another escalation in its campaign to disrupt vessels linked to Venezuela’s sanctioned oil trade. The operation forms part of a broader maritime enforcement effort aimed at dismantling so-called “shadow fleet” networks used to transport crude in violation of U.S. restrictions. U.S. officials said the tanker was intercepted and boarded by Coast Guard personnel with support from U.S. Navy assets operating under Operation Southern Spear. The boarding was carried out without resistance, and the vessel was taken under U.S. control pending legal proceedings. Authorities indicated that the tanker had been under surveillance due to its suspected involvement in sanctioned oil movements. The seizure of MT Veronica follows a series of similar actions in recent weeks, as U.S. forces have intensified patrols and interdictions across the Caribbean and Atlantic regions. Officials describe the campaign as a shift toward direct maritime enforcement, targeting vessels themselves rather than solely penalizing cargo owners or operators. U.S. authorities argue that the shadow fleet relies on deceptive shipping practices, including frequent flag changes, altered vessel identities, and complex ownership structures designed to obscure ties to sanctioned entities. By seizing vessels engaged in these activities, officials say they aim to deter future violations and disrupt illicit supply chains. The operation has drawn criticism from Venezuela and some international observers, who argue the seizures overstep international maritime norms. U.S. officials maintain that the actions are lawful and conducted under established legal authorities to enforce sanctions and uphold maritime security. As Operation Southern Spear continues, industry analysts say the seizures are likely to heighten caution among shipowners, insurers, and charterers operating in the region. The expanding enforcement campaign underscores the growing role of naval and coast guard forces in policing global energy trade amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Cargo Vessel Drifts at Istanbul Anchorage After Engine Failure

Cargo Vessel Drifts at Istanbul Anchorage After Engine Failure A cargo vessel temporarily lost maneuverability after suffering an engine failure while anchored off Istanbul, causing it to drift in the busy Sea of Marmara and prompting a rapid response from Turkish maritime authorities. The incident raised safety concerns due to the high density of vessels operating in the anchorage area. According to maritime officials, the vessel experienced a sudden propulsion breakdown while at anchor, leaving it unable to maintain position against wind and current. As the ship began drifting, authorities were alerted to the risk of potential collision with nearby anchored vessels and port infrastructure. Turkey’s Directorate General of Coastal Safety deployed tugboats to assist the stricken ship. The response teams were able to secure the vessel and guide it to a safer position, preventing further movement and stabilizing the situation. No injuries to crew members were reported, and there was no indication of pollution or cargo damage.

Turkmenistan Rescues Crew From Distressed Iranian Cargo Vessel in Caspian Sea

Turkmenistan Rescues Crew From Distressed Iranian Cargo Vessel in Caspian Sea Turkmenistan’s maritime authorities have successfully rescued 14 crew members from an Iranian cargo ship that became distressed in the Caspian Sea, according to official statements. The operation was carried out after the vessel issued an emergency call, prompting a swift response from coastal rescue services. The Iranian-flagged cargo ship encountered difficulties while sailing in Turkmenistan’s area of responsibility in the Caspian Sea. Upon receiving the distress signal, Turkmenistan’s coast guard and emergency response units were immediately dispatched to assist the vessel and its crew, in line with international maritime safety obligations. Rescue teams were able to evacuate all 14 crew members safely, with no injuries reported. Authorities said the crew included Iranian and Indian nationals. Following the rescue, the seafarers were brought ashore, where they received medical checks and support from local authorities.

PMMAAI New Year’s Ball, B-Connect and Election

PMMA Alumni Association Hosts New Year’s Ball, Welcomes New Adopted Member, and Announces Elected Leaders for 2026–2027 The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy Alumni Association, Inc. (PMMAAI) successfully held its New Year’s Ball, B-Connect, and Election on January 8, 2026, at One Shangri-La Condominium Corporation, bringing together PMMA alumni from different generations for an evening of fellowship, recognition, and leadership transition.

MARINA Presents 2025 Accomplishments, Regulatory Reforms, and Maritime Roadmap at Year-End Press Con

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) presented its major accomplishments, regulatory reforms, and strategic priorities during its Year-End Press Conference held on 16 December 2025 at the 12th Floor Conference Room, MARINA Central Office in Manila.

Marlow Navigation Unmasks Excellence at Year-End Masquerade Celebration

Marlow Navigation concluded the year with an elegant and memorable year-end celebration, “Unmask the Extraordinary: A Masquerade Party,” held at the Fiesta Pavilion, Manila Hotel. The event gathered distinguished guests from government, industry partners, stakeholders, employees, seafarers, awardees, and their families, with the presence of a company representative from Cyprus and the strong support of the Directors of Marlow, highlighting the organization’s global reach and unified leadership.

The Managers’ Club (TMC) Christmas Party and Year-End Celebration

The Managers’ Club Christmas Party and Year-End Celebration, held at the elegant Levatine & Mediterranean Hall of Grand Westside Manila Bay, gathered maritime executives, managers, and industry professionals for an evening dedicated to unity, collaboration, and festive appreciation. Organized through the strong support and initiative of the Managers’ Club founders, and made possible by the generous contributions of its sponsors, the event provided a warm and vibrant setting for the maritime community to close the year together.

Understanding Ship Draft

Ship draft is the vertical distance between the waterline and the lowest point of a vessel’s hull, usually the keel. It indicates how deep a ship sits in the water and is a critical factor in safe navigation. Draft changes depending on the vessel’s load, including cargo, fuel, ballast, fresh water, and provisions. A deeper draft means the ship is heavier, while a lighter ship has a shallower draft. Understanding draft is essential when entering shallow ports, canals, rivers, or during berthing, as insufficient water depth can lead to grounding and structural damage. There are different types of draft. Forward draft is measured at the bow, aft draft at the stern, and mean draft is the average of both. These measurements help officers assess trim, stability, and compliance with port restrictions. Draft also affects a ship’s speed, fuel consumption, and maneuverability, making accurate monitoring vital for efficient operations.

Types of Grease Used in Marine Applications

Types of Grease Used in Marine Applications Proper lubrication is essential for the safe, efficient, and long-term operation of marine machinery. Different operating conditions such as temperature, moisture, load, and movement require specific types of grease. Understanding the correct grease to use helps prevent premature wear, corrosion, and equipment failure. Below are the common types of grease used in marine and industrial environments.

Micrometer

What is a Micrometer A micrometer is a precision measuring instrument widely used in engineering, machining, ship maintenance, and industrial applications where accuracy is critical. It is designed to measure very small dimensions such as thickness, diameter, and length with high precision. Understanding the different parts of a micrometer helps users operate the tool correctly and achieve accurate measurements.

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

A Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is a personal respiratory protection device that supplies clean, breathable air from an independent source. It is designed for use in hazardous, oxygen-deficient, or smoke-filled environments where the surrounding air is unsafe to breathe. SCBAs are commonly used by firefighters, seafarers, rescue teams, and industrial workers to ensure safe breathing during emergencies such as fires, chemical leaks, or confined space operations.