1. Ghost Ships in the English Channel Raise Regulatory and Safety Concerns
A growing number of laid-up and “ghost” vessels drifting or anchored in the English Channel are creating navigational, environmental and legal challenges for coastal states. Authorities and industry bodies are debating enforcement options as questions mount over ownership transparency, insurance validity and potential pollution risks.
2. ICS Responds to the EU Maritime Action Plan
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has issued its response to the EU Maritime Action Plan, stressing the need for global regulatory alignment and practical decarbonisation pathways. ICS warned against fragmented regional rules and called for measures that safeguard competitiveness while accelerating climate goals.
https://cyprusshippingnews.com/2026/02/18/ics-response-maritime-action-plan/
3. Valenciaport Expands Border Control Building
Valenciaport has launched the expansion of its border control building to streamline inspections and boost operational efficiency at the Port of Valencia. The upgrade is expected to enhance cargo handling capacity and improve coordination among customs and health authorities.
4. NGOs Urge IMO to Reject Dilution Approach for Ammonia Waste
Environmental NGOs have called on the IMO to adopt stricter onboard retention and port offload requirements for ammonia-related ship waste, arguing that dilution at sea is not an acceptable solution. The groups stress that clear global standards are essential as ammonia gains traction as an alternative marine fuel.
5. French Authorities Allow Shadow Aframax to Leave Marseille
French authorities have permitted a sanctioned-linked “shadow fleet” aframax tanker to depart from Marseille, drawing scrutiny over enforcement consistency. The case highlights ongoing challenges in monitoring vessels suspected of opaque ownership and sanction evasion.
https://splash247.com/french-let-shadow-aframax-depart-from-marseille/
6. Thenamaris Linked to $176m Suezmax Newbuild Pair
Greek owner Thenamaris is reported to be tied to a $176m order for two suezmax tankers, reflecting continued investment in modern tonnage. The deal underlines sustained confidence in tanker market fundamentals despite regulatory and geopolitical uncertainties.
https://splash247.com/thenamaris-tied-to-176m-suezmax-pair/
7. Norwegian Secures Fincantieri Slots Through 2037
Norwegian has signed a three-ship agreement with Fincantieri, securing valuable shipyard slots through 2037 as competition for newbuild capacity intensifies. The long-term arrangement strengthens fleet renewal planning and provides greater cost visibility.
https://gcaptain.com/norwegian-locks-in-three-ship-fincantieri-deal-secures-yard-slots-through-2037/
8. Fuel Removed from Grounded Barge Near San Juan Harbor
Salvage teams have successfully removed fuel from a grounded barge near San Juan Harbor to reduce environmental risk. Authorities continue to monitor the site while assessing structural stability and next recovery steps.
https://gcaptain.com/salvage-crews-remove-fuel-from-grounded-barge-near-san-juan-harbor/
9. Fuel Flexibility Seen as Key to Shipping Decarbonisation
Industry analysts argue that fuel flexibility rather than strict fuel certainty will determine shipping’s decarbonisation trajectory. Owners are increasingly favouring adaptable engine technologies to manage regulatory shifts and uncertain fuel supply landscapes.
10. BigLift Shipping to Add New Vessel to Fleet
BigLift Shipping plans to enhance its fleet with a new heavy-lift vessel designed to support complex project cargo operations. The expansion aims to strengthen the company’s position in offshore and large-scale industrial transport markets.
https://www.seanews.co.uk/maritime/biglift-shipping-to-enhance-fleet-with-new-vessel