Russian LNG Vessel Reportedly Equipped with Heavy Machine Guns

Estonian surveillance has reportedly identified heavy machine guns mounted on a Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessel transiting the Baltic Sea, drawing renewed attention to maritime security developments in the region. According to international reports, surveillance images captured during a routine voyage showed two heavy machine guns positioned above the vessel's bridge behind protective barriers. The weapons are believed by defense analysts to be large-caliber machine guns, although no official confirmation has been issued regarding their exact type or purpose.

South Korean Shipyard Set to Resume Full Shipbuilding After Nine-Year Hiatus

A major shipyard in South Korea is preparing to resume full-scale shipbuilding operations after nearly nine years, following the signing of a letter of intent for its first new vessel orders under new ownership. The development marks a significant step toward restoring the facility's shipbuilding capabilities after years of limited activity. The shipyard suspended full ship construction in 2017 amid a prolonged downturn in the global shipbuilding market and a decline in new orders. Since then, the facility has primarily been used for manufacturing ship blocks rather than constructing complete vessels. The recent agreement follows the completion of the shipyard's acquisition by a newly established company backed by investors from South Korea's shipbuilding sector.

Chinese Tanker Completes Another U.S. Domestic Voyage Under Jones Act Waiver

A Chinese-flagged asphalt tanker has completed another domestic cargo voyage between two United States ports under the country's temporary Jones Act waiver, drawing renewed attention to the ongoing debate over the policy and its impact on the U.S. maritime industry. The vessel transported a cargo of asphalt from Louisiana to Connecticut under an emergency exemption that allows certain foreign-flagged ships to operate on domestic U.S. routes. The waiver was introduced following disruptions to global energy markets and was intended to help maintain the movement of fuel and related products within the country during a period of supply uncertainty. The voyage has prompted criticism from several U.S. maritime organizations, which questioned whether the shipment met the national security objectives cited in support of the waiver. Industry groups have argued that continued use of foreign-flagged vessels on domestic routes could affect employment opportunities for U.S. mariners and the competitiveness of the country's maritime sector.

Oil Tanker Transits Continue Through Strait of Hormuz Despite Rising Security Concerns

Commercial oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continues despite renewed security concerns following recent attacks on merchant vessels in the region. While the strategic waterway remains open to international shipping, many shipowners, operators, and insurers are taking a more cautious approach as geopolitical tensions continue to affect maritime operations. Shipping data indicates that crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from major Gulf producers are continuing, with tankers loading cargoes and departing from export terminals across the region. Several very large crude carriers (VLCCs) have resumed voyages from key export facilities, while LNG shipments from Gulf producers also remain active. However, overall vessel movements through the Strait have yet to return to normal levels, as some operators continue to delay sailings or reassess voyage plans based on the evolving security situation.

Digital Partnership Strengthened to Advance the Welfare of Filipino Seafarers

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and MARINO PH formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thursday at the DMW Central Office, establishing a digital partnership aimed at strengthening information sharing and enhancing support for Filipino seafarers around the world.

DMMA College of Southern Philippines Holds 32nd Commencement and 25th Recognition Exercises

The DMMA College of Southern Philippines successfully held its 32nd Commencement and 25th Recognition Exercises at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang Premier in Davao City, celebrating another milestone in maritime education. The ceremony honored the graduates and completers of the Class of 2026, recognizing their years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance as they prepare to take the next step in their professional journey.

Thousands of Maritime Opportunities Open as Philippines Celebrates International Day of the Seafarer

MANILA, Philippines — In celebration of the International Day of the Seafarer on June 25, maritime stakeholders and government agencies gathered at Rizal Park Hotel in Manila to honor Filipino seafarers through a special job fair aimed at creating new career opportunities and recognizing their invaluable contribution to global shipping.

MARINO PH Commemorates International Day of the Seafarer Through Community Outreach Initiative

MANILA, Philippines — In celebration of the International Day of the Seafarer on June 25, 2026, the MARINO PH team gathered in Kalaw, Manila to recognize and honor the dedication of Filipino seafarers whose work continues to sustain global trade and connect economies across the world.

Types of Ship Anchor

What is anchor? An anchor is a heavy device, typically made of metal, that is used to connect a vessel to the bed of a body of water to prevent the vessel from drifting due to wind or current. Purpose ‣To Hold the Vessel in Place It secures the ship in a fixed location, especially when it is not at a dock or port. ‣To Prevent Drifting It stops the vessel from being carried away by wind, waves, or currents. ‣To Provide Safety in Emergencies In case of engine failure or rough weather, the anchor helps prevent the ship from drifting into danger. ‣To Assist in Positioning During Operations Useful for activities like dredging, diving, or repairs where stability is essential. 1. Fluke Anchor (Danforth) The Fluke anchor, also known as the Danforth anchor, is a lightweight, high-holding power anchor designed with two wide flat flukes that pivot on a shank. Purpose: It is ideal for anchoring in sandy or muddy bottoms, where its broad flukes can dig in deeply and hold firmly. Key Features: ‣Made of high-strength steel or aluminum ‣Lightweight and easy to handle ‣Excellent holding power relative to its weight ‣Commonly used on smaller vessels, yachts, and recreational boats 2. Plow Anchor (CQR) The Plow Anchor, commonly known as the CQR anchor (short for Coastal Quick Release), features a single plow-shaped fluke that pivots on a shank, resembling a farmer’s plow. Purpose: Designed to penetrate and bury itself in a variety of seabeds, it is widely used for general-purpose anchoring, especially in changing conditions Key Features: ‣Heavy-duty forged or cast steel construction ‣Hinged design allows it to adapt to shifting loads ‣Performs well in sand, mud, gravel, and some grassy bottoms ‣Often seen on cruising and commercial vessels 3. Bruce Anchor The Bruce anchor, also known as the Claw anchor, is a one-piece anchor with a claw-like shape designed to dig into the seabed and provide steady holding power. Purpose: Developed originally for offshore oil rigs, the Bruce anchor is now popular for small to medium recreational boats due to its reliable setting and holding capabilities. Key Features: ‣Made from forged or cast steel ‣One-piece construction with no moving parts ‣Performs well in sand, mud, and some rocky bottoms ‣Commonly used by cruising yachts and powerboats

Sulzer Engine: RTA vs RT-flex Understanding the Evolution of Marine Propulsion

Sulzer marine engines have long played a major role in powering commercial shipping through reliability, fuel efficiency, and continuous technological advancement. Among their most recognized low-speed two-stroke engine designs are the RTA and RT-flex series, each representing different generations of marine engine development and operational capability. The Sulzer RTA engine is a mechanically controlled low-speed diesel engine designed for dependable performance and straightforward operation. Fuel injection and exhaust valve timing are driven mechanically through camshaft systems, making the engine robust and easier to maintain in traditional shipboard environments. RTA engines became widely used across various vessel types because of their proven durability and efficient fuel consumption during long-distance voyages.

Parts of the Anchor System of a Ship

What is the Anchor System of a Ship? The anchor system is essential equipment that secures a ship in place at sea or in port. It consists of interconnected parts such as the anchor, chain, windlass, and locker, working together to prevent drifting, protect the vessel, and ensure safety during operations, emergencies, or harsh weather conditions. Parts of the Anchor System of a Ship 1. Anchor A heavy steel device that grips the seabed to hold the ship in position. It prevents drifting due to wind, waves, or current, ensuring stability and safety. 2. Chain Cable A strong, durable chain linking the anchor to the ship. Its weight and strength allow effective seabed penetration, withstand high tension, and resist corrosion in harsh marine conditions. 3. Windlass A powerful mechanical device used to heave up or let go the anchor chain. Operated hydraulically, electrically, or manually, it ensures safe, efficient anchoring operations and controlled chain movement. 4. Chain Stopper A securing device that locks the anchor chain when not in use. It relieves stress on the windlass, prevents chain slippage, and ensures safety during sailing or rough weather. 5. Anchor Lashing Strong securing arrangement that holds the anchor firmly in place while the ship is underway. It prevents unwanted movement caused by vibration, waves, or ship motion, protecting vessel structures. 6. Hawse Pipe A cylindrical pipe at the bow through which the anchor chain passes from deck to sea. It aligns and protects the chain, preventing friction damage and entanglement.

CONTAINER LASHING

CONTAINER LASHING Container lashing is a critical safety procedure used on container vessels to secure cargo during sea transport. Proper lashing prevents shifting, tilting, or falling of containers caused by vessel movement, heavy weather, and rolling motions. The system is composed of different components designed to keep containers stable, aligned, and firmly locked in place throughout the voyage. Key components of container lashing include: ●Long Lashing Rods – Used for higher container tiers to provide extended reach and strong vertical and diagonal support. ●Short Lashing Rods – Applied on lower tiers where shorter connections are required for stability. ●Turnbuckles – Adjustable tensioning devices that tighten lashing rods to maintain proper securing force.