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DAILY BULLETIN OF MARITIME NEWS FOR THE WEEK STARTING SUNDAY 11 MAY 2025

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First View: ECO NAPOLI

The Grimaldi Group recently took delivery of the Eco Napoli (IMO 9985540), the final vessel in its Grimaldi Green 5th Generation (GG5G) class of hybrid roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) ships. Built at the Jinling Shipyard in Nanjing, China, and delivered on 14 March 2025, this Italian-flagged vessel marks the completion of a $1 billion investment in 14 eco-friendly ships designed for short-sea shipping in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. With a length of 238 metres and width of 34m, the vessel has a gross tonnage of 67,311 tonnes.   Read more…

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Cadet Training Programme Opportunity

Are you a qualified maritime graduate ready to take the next step?          AMSOL’s SAMSA-accredited Cadet Training Programme offers an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience across AMSOL’s diverse fleet. This Cadetship is designed to equip the next generation of maritime professionals and support a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry. Applications are now open – don’t miss your chance to join a dynamic company!      Read more…  

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TPT makes a rebound after stabilising its business – CEO

Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), which with its 16 terminals handling everything from citrus to iron ore, may be considered the backbone of South Africa’s freight logistics, is charting a bold new course after stabilising its operations, with a clear focus on growth and efficiency. That’s the word from Chief Executive Jabu Mdaki, who was speaking at the Transport Forum in Durban last week. He described the state-owned terminal operator as emerging from years of challenges with a multifaceted strategy that’s already delivering results. Read more…

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WHARF TALK: military sealift vessel – EDDYSTONE

Sometimes, though not always, the casual maritime observer is akin to a train spotter. With notebook in hand, and noting down the names and/or numbers of those locomotives that pass their viewing point, and with the ambition of reaching that ‘Bingo’ moment, when they can say they have seen every one of the locomotive class that is in service with that particular operator. For the casual maritime observer, a class usually runs to half a dozen, or less, rather than the dozens for the train spotter, but the desire to see them all is not any different for the observer. On 25th April, at 10:00 in the morning, the military sealift vessel ‘Eddystone’ (IMO 9234070) arrived off Cape Town, from Gibraltar.    Read more…

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AMSOL UPDATE: New offshore tug and Focus on Sustainability

AMSOL (African Marine Solutions) is expanding its South African fleet with the addition of an anchor handling tug supply vessel which will be renamed ‘Inkanyezi’ later this month. AMSOL described the investment of the AHTS as a further expansion of its coastal fleet that together provide coastwide coverage along the Southern African coast and supporting offshore operations across the region. A simple translation of the name Inkanyezi into English is that the word means ‘Star’. Inkanyezi joins the other vessels in the fleet which include the ‘Umkhuseli’, ‘Nomasa’ and ‘Siyanda’ to ensure coastwise coverage.  Read more…

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Maersk posts strong Q1 results amid growing global uncertainty

Global shipping giant A.P. Moller – Maersk kicked off 2025 with solid financial performance, reporting a 7.8% rise in revenue to USD 13.3 billion for the first quarter. Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) surged to USD 1.3 billion, a significant increase from USD 177 million in Q1 2024, driven by improvements across all business segments. Despite a sequential decline in earnings, Maersk described the quarter as a strong start to the year, citing improved profitability in its Ocean business, operational gains in Logistics & Services, and robust volume growth in Terminals.  Read more…

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Veson Nautical secures trio of ISO certifications for data security and privacy

Maritime software leader Veson Nautical (whose reports we frequently feature in Africa Ports & Ships) has achieved three key ISO certifications — ISO 27001:2022, ISO 27017:2015, and ISO 27701:2019 — solidifying its commitment to information security, cloud safety, and data privacy across its freight and data management platforms. The certifications reinforce Veson’s proactive approach to safeguarding sensitive client information, particularly in the highly connected maritime and logistics sectors.   Read more…

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Enclosed space fatalities – Recently published information

An appeal to the industry: News has been received of research into a matter of much concern to the maritime industry: enclosed space fatalities. At the London office of the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) on 27 March the fourth Enclosed Space Entry – Joint Industry Workshop took place. The cross-industry working group drawn from leading maritime organisations gathered to identify measures to reduce or eliminate deaths in enclosed spaces onboard vessels. Fatalities due to asphyxia on and/or poisoning in the shipping industry continue, despite numerous rules, regulations, and best practice guidance on how to avoid such deaths. Read more…

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Trade, tariffs and new markets top agenda at Automechanika CEO Breakfast

South Africa’s automotive sector is adapting to global trade turbulence, with tariffs, shifting alliances, and infrastructure hurdles taking centre stage at the Automechanika CEO Breakfast held on 8 May at the Centurion Country Club. Themed ‘The African Connection’, the event brought together key industry leaders to discuss the impact of international trade developments on the region’s automotive and logistics landscape. Michael Dehn, Managing Director at Messe Frankfurt South Africa, opened the session by highlighting the sector’s pivot toward new trade frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and partnerships within the BRICS bloc.   Read more…

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Mega Cranes arrive at DCT Pier 2 ahead of peak season 

Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 is boosting its container-handling capacity with the arrival of four new ship-to-shore cranes, just in time for the busy year-end retail season. Components for the first two of the four cranes have now been delivered to DCT Pier 2, with commissioning scheduled for October and November 2025 respectively. Each crane costs R242 million and represents a significant technological leap forward for South Africa’s busiest container terminal. “The South Quay has been under immense pressure due to the limitations of our aging crane fleet,” said Earle Peters, Managing Executive at Durban Terminals. “The arrival of these Liebherr cranes marks a major step forward in restoring reliability, boosting productivity, and ensuring we meet the evolving demands of global trade.”   Read more…

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TNPA announces 5 preferred bidders for the Richards Bay Liquid Bulk terminals

In an announcement on Thursday 8 May 2025, TNPA announced the names of five preferred bidders to develop, manage and operate the liquid bulk and green fuel terminals at the port of Richards Bay. The terminals will be situated in the South Dunes Precinct of the port and will be managed and operated on a concession basis for a period of 25 years. The development, worth approximately R17 billion, is an integral part of expanding the port’s liquid bulk handling capacity while advancing South Africa’s energy transition. The successful preferred bidders are:   Read more…

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WHARF TALK: Japanese cruise ship – ASUKA III

It is a set of well-known statistics that Japan is a very wealthy nation, a member of the G7, with its economy being ranked as the third largest in the world, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$4.21 trillion (ZAR76.92 trillion), which is more than ten times the South Africa GDP of US$380.7 billion (ZAR6.96 trillion). It has been a major economic power for a number of decades, and has a population of over 123 million citizens, who have a GDP per capita spending power of US$33,767 (ZAR616,960) each. That large GDP includes an industrial base that includes the third largest ship building industry in the world, one which produces almost every type of vessel that the casual maritime observer could think of.   Read more…

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Red Sea ceasefire offers diplomatic hope — but maritime risk remains high, says Dryad Global

A newly announced ceasefire in the Red Sea region marks a step forward in diplomacy, but shipping risk remains elevated, warns maritime intelligence firm Dryad Global. On 6 May, the U.S. confirmed a halt to its Yemen airstrikes—operations that began in mid-March — following an Oman-brokered ceasefire proposal with Yemen’s Houthi movement. The agreement aims to suspend hostilities between U.S. forces and the Houthis, particularly around the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait. Although there have been no direct attacks on commercial vessels in the region since late 2024, the Joint War Committee in London has maintained its high-risk classification for these waters. Read more…

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Xeneta suggests a return of container ships to the Red Sea could cause global collapse in freight rates

Potential return of container ships to Red Sea following US-Houthi ceasefire announcement could cause global collapse in freight rates, according to Xeneta data. The prospect of a largescale return of container ships to the Red Sea following the announcement of a ceasefire between the US and Houthi militia in Yemen would flood the market with shipping capacity and cause a global collapse in freight rates – but the situation remains far from certain. Data released by Xeneta – the ocean and air freight intelligence platform – shows global TEU-mile demand would ….   Read more…

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IMO and new sulphur emission limits: Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea officially became an Emission Control Area (Med SOx ECA) under MARPOL Annex VI on 1 May 2025. The sulphur content in fuel oil for ships operating in the area is now limited to 0.1%, significantly reducing air pollution and delivering major benefits to both human health and the marine environment. This was reported by IMO on 1 May 2025. Ships operating in Emission Control Areas for Sulphur Oxides and Particulate Matter, such as the Mediterranean Sea, are now subject to strict mandatory measures to prevent, reduce, and control air pollution.  Read more…

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AGL Terminals launches operations at Cape Town’s A-Berth, Duncan Docks

A new chapter in South Africa’s port sector has begun with AGL Terminals, a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics (AGL), officially launching operations at A-Berth in the Port of Cape Town’s Duncan Docks. This follows the conclusion of a lease agreement with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), effective from 1 April 2025. The move is being hailed as a significant milestone in private-sector participation in South African port operations, reinforcing TNPA’s goal of improving port efficiency through strategic partnerships.  Read more…

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Port Sudan under siege: Drone strikes disrupt key maritime hub

Port Sudan, Sudan – In a significant escalation of Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict, the strategic Red Sea port city of Port Sudan has come under sustained drone attacks, marking a dramatic shift in the two-year war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Beginning on 4 May 2025, the RSF launched a series of drone strikes targeting critical infrastructure in Port Sudan, including the Osman Digna airbase, fuel depots, the city’s main container terminal, and the international airport.  Read more…

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Flag State implementation: Africa

A regional workshop led by IMO in Mombasa has helped maritime professionals in Eastern and Southern Africa enhance their understanding of flag States’ obligations under IMO conventions, and how to authorise Recognized Organizations to ensure these obligations are met. The Regional Workshop on Flag State Implementation (FSI) and the Authorization of Recognized Organizations held from 7-11 April brought together thirty-nine participants from seventeen countries to promote effective implementation of IMO regulations, and support safe, secure and more environmentally sustainable shipping.   Read more…

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First View:   ECO NAPOLI

The Grimaldi Group recently took delivery of the Eco Napoli (IMO 9985540), the final vessel in its Grimaldi Green 5th Generation (GG5G) class of hybrid roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) ships.

Built at the Jinling Shipyard in Nanjing, China, and delivered on 14 March 2025, this Italian-flagged vessel marks the completion of a $1 billion investment in 14 eco-friendly ships designed for short-sea shipping in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

With a length of 238 metres and width of 34m, the vessel has a gross tonnage of 67,311 tonnes. Her cargo capacity allows for 7,800 metres of rolling freight, accommodation approximately 500 trailers and 180 cars across seven decks, of which two are hoistable for oversized vehicles.

Eco Napoli has a service speed of 20.8 knots.

Environmentally friendly

Despite its increased capacity, the Eco Napoli maintains the same fuel consumption as its predecessors, effectively halving CO₂ emissions per transported unit. This efficiency is achieved through advanced technological solutions that optimise fuel consumption and performance.

The vessel is equipped with electronically controlled engines and an exhaust gas cleaning system to reduce sulphur and particulate emissions. During port stays, she can achieve zero emissions by utilising electricity stored in 5 MWh lithium batteries, recharged during navigation via shaft generators and 350 m² of solar panels .

During her delivery voyage, during which she called at Durban, the vessels is carrying a mixed cargo of cars, vans, trucks and agricultural machines.

On arrival in the Mediterranean, Eco Napoli will enter service enhancing Grimaldi’s ro-ro connections between Gemlik and Ambarli in Turkiye, Patras in Greece, and Trieste in Italy. This deployment aims to strengthen the company’s ‘Motorways of the Sea’ initiative, offering increased capacity, efficiency, and sustainability in short-sea transport .

With the addition of the Eco Napoli, the GG5G fleet is now complete, representing a significant advancement in environmentally sustainable maritime logistics.

These pictures are by Trevor Jones
Africa Ports & Ships

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Cadet Training Programme Opportunity

Africa Ports & Ships

Are you a qualified maritime graduate ready to take the next step?

AMSOL’s SAMSA-accredited Cadet Training Programme offers an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience across AMSOL’s diverse fleet.

This Cadetship is designed to equip the next generation of maritime professionals and support a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry.

Applications are now open – don’t miss your chance to join a dynamic company! To apply click on the following link HERE

Added 11 May 2025

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TPT makes a rebound after stabilising its business – CEO

Africa Ports & Ships

Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), which with its 16 terminals handling everything from citrus to iron ore, may be considered the backbone of South Africa’s freight logistics, is charting a bold new course after stabilising its operations, with a clear focus on growth and efficiency.

That’s the word from Chief Executive Jabu Mdaki, who was speaking at the Transport Forum in Durban last week. He described the state-owned terminal operator as emerging from years of challenges with a multifaceted strategy that’s already delivering results.

TPT has faced its share of headwinds, from underinvestment in equipment to disruptive weather and restrictive policies. Yet, Mdaki revealed that the company has turned a corner in the 2024/2025 financial year, surpassing volume targets at five key terminals — Richards Bay, Durban Container Terminal Pier 1, Durban Multipurpose Terminal, and Port Elizabeth Container Terminal.

These achievements milestones mark a significant rebound, but, says Mdaki, TPT isn’t resting on its laurels. With a R3.4 billion budget for new equipment in 2025/2026, the operator is doubling down on modernisation and capacity expansion.

The company’s ambitious plans include upgrading container stacks, rail infrastructure, and agricultural facilities at the Cape Town Multipurpose Terminal, as well as delivering a third tippler to Saldanha’s Bulk Terminal by October 2025.

TPT is also reviewing loading cycles in its container sector to streamline operations.

Meanwhile, the citrus season, which began in April, has been bolstered by new equipment like ship-to-shore cranes, rubber-tyred gantry cranes, straddle carriers, and reach stackers deployed across Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Cape Town terminals.

To tackle past inefficiencies, TPT is refurbishing its existing fleet and embracing technology. “We’ve had to employ new technologies, automate processes, and maximise data analytics to predict maintenance and drive effective planning,” Mdaki said.

The company has also filled critical vacancies, introduced a new shift pattern, and secured long-term maintenance contracts with original equipment manufacturers to keep operations humming.

Despite these gains, external risks loom. Mdaki noted that recent U.S. tariffs on South African exports could disrupt TPT’s plans, but the company is working closely with industry partners to mitigate the impact.

“We’re not just reacting; we’re proactively collaborating to protect our growth trajectory,” he said.

TPT’s turnaround will be a bright spot for South Africa’s logistics sector, which plays a critical role in the country’s economy. By balancing innovation, infrastructure investment, and operational discipline, TPT is positioning itself to capture greater market share and drive volume growth across its diverse cargo streams.

As Mdaki puts it, “This is about building a resilient, future-ready operation that can weather any storm.”

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WHARF TALK: military sealift vessel – EDDYSTONE

Pictures by ‘Dockrat’ 
Story by Jay Gates

Sometimes, though not always, the casual maritime observer is akin to a train spotter. With notebook in hand, and noting down the names and/or numbers of those locomotives that pass their viewing point, and with the ambition of reaching that ‘Bingo’ moment, when they can say they have seen every one of the locomotive class that is in service with that particular operator. For the casual maritime observer, a class usually runs to half a dozen, or less, rather than the dozens for the train spotter, but the desire to see them all is not any different for the observer.

On 25th April, at 10:00 in the morning, the military sealift vessel ‘Eddystone’ (IMO 9234070) arrived off Cape Town, from Gibraltar. She entered Cape Town harbour, proceeding into the Duncan Dock, and went alongside the outer berth of the Eastern Mole. As most observers will by now have realised, this berth is almost always utilised by non-commercial traffic, calling in purely for a relatively short logistics call for an uplift of bunkers, stores and provisions.

Built in 2002 by Flensburger Werft Schiffbau GmbH, of Flensburg in Germany, ‘Eddystone’ is 193 metres in length and has a gross registered tonnage of 23,335 tons. She is powered by two MaK 9M43 nine cylinder, four stroke, scrubber equipped main engines producing 10,850 bhp (8,091 kW) each, and driving two controllable pitch propellers for a service speed of 21 knots.

Her auxiliary machinery includes two MaK 9M20 generators providing 1,280 kW each. For added manoeuvrability ‘Eddystone’ has a single bow Brunvoll FU-80-LTC transverse thruster providing 1,400 kW. She is a Roll On- Roll Off vessel, with a stern ramp which is 16.4 metres long, 17 metres wide, with a weight carrying capacity of 75 tons/m2, and with a stern door opening height of 7 metres. Her ramp has 12 foldable fingers that can each be operated independently, which allows targeted vehicular loading, or discharge, to narrow linkspans, floats, or barges. She is also equipped with a smaller, starboard side, vehicle loading ramp.

Equipped with three vehicle decks, ‘Eddystone’ provides 2,620 lane metres for vehicles, equivalent to loading 164 heavy goods vehicles, or a mix of 220 light and heavy military vehicles, which includes up to 130 armoured fighting vehicles, 70 military trucks, plus support vehicles, and ammunition, totaling 13,000 tons.

She also has a container carrying capacity of 411 TEU, including the provision of 60 deck reefer plugs. For operating at ports with no cargo handling facilities she is fitted with a single, starboard side, MacGregor crane capable of lifting 40 tons. She has accommodation for a crew of up to 22 personnel, plus additional accommodation for 12 support staff, or vehicle drivers. To enable ‘Eddystone’ to operate anywhere on Earth, she has an ice classification of ICE 1A, which allows her to operate in first year Baltic Sea ice thickness of 0.8 metres, or first year Polar ice thickness of up to 0.7 metres.

Owned by Hadley Shipping Group, of London in the United Kingdom, ‘Eddystone’ is operated by Foreland Shipping Ltd., also of London, whose houseflag is proudly displayed on her funnel, and she is managed by AW Ship Management Ltd, also of London. Casual ship observers may know that AW are the initials for Andrew Weir, who previously owned the Bank Line, a famous British shipping company whose vessels, all named after British Rivers, were regular visitors to South African ports, and who latterly included the last mailship ‘RMS St. Helena’ as one of their fleet.

With ‘Eddystone’ being the third vessel built of a series of six sisterships, and known as the Point Class Sealift Ships, they were all built as a result of a British Strategic Defence Review, that identified a national need for specially designed roll-on, roll-off, transport vessels, with strengthened decks for the carriage of heavy military armoured vehicles, with all vessels being contracted to the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence, and operating under the British flag.

All six vessels were named after Lighthouses of the Trinity House Lighthouse Service (THLS). In 2012, two of the vessels, ‘Longstone’ and ‘Beachy Head’ were released from service and sold on, with ‘Longstone’ now providing military sealift capacity to the Dutch Military Forces, and ‘Beachy Head’ now providing military sealift capacity to the Singapore Military Forces.

 

The remaining four vessels continue to provide continuous military sealift capacity to the British Military Forces. They are ‘Anvil Point’, ‘Hartland Point’, and ‘Hurst Point’, and ‘Eddystone’. The casual maritime observer will now recall that ‘Eddystone’ is now the 4th of all of the four remaining British Point Class vessels to call at South African ports in the last 15 months, with ‘Hartland Point’ first calling into Cape Town in February 2024, followed by ‘Anvil Point’ which called into Cape Town in April 2024, and with ‘Hurst Point’ arriving in September 2024, but unusually calling into Durban instead.

The contract for the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to use the remaining four vessels was originally scheduled to have expired at the end of 2024. However, in October 2021 the MoD issued a Request for Information (RFI) for an ‘interim’ Strategic Sealift capability, which was to begin in January 2025. In November 2022, Foreland Shipping Ltd. was awarded an ‘interim’ seven-year contract, valued at £625 million (ZAR15.13 billion), to continue the military sealift service until December 2031. At which point, the MoD has requested an RFI for an increase back to six, newbuild, replacement sealift vessels.

An idea of the importance of why these Military Sealift vessels are so important, in today’s dangerous geopolitical world, where Putin is trying to undermine and destabilise Europe with his bestial invasion of Ukraine, is to look at the voyage of ‘Eddystone’ prior to her current one. Operating out of the Marchwood Military Port, which is located opposite Southampton Docks in the United Kingdom, ‘Eddystone’ departed from there on 14th March, bound for the Greek port of Alexandroupoli, where she arrived one week later on 21st March.

The importance of this port in Northern Greece is that it is the closest, and available, NATO port to the entrance to the Black Sea. As a result of the Ukraine conflict, Turkey has invoked the Montreaux Convention of 1936, which prevents warships, or military support vessels, of using the Bosphorus and Dardanelles to enter, or leave, the Black Sea.

In 2022, as a further result of Russian aggression surrounding Ukraine, and within the Black Sea, NATO strengthened their Eastern capability within Bulgaria and Rumania, who are both NATO members, and whose coastlines are entirely within the Black Sea. This NATO increase included an enhanced Air Policing (eAP) mission, with a quick reaction force (QRA) being provided by NATO fighter aircraft in Rumania, the hosting of a NATO Battlegroup in Rumania, now being upgraded to a Brigade Level Battlegroup, and a further NATO Battlegroup created in Bulgaria.

NATO set up Exercise Steadfast Dart 2025, to test their rapid deployment capabilities along the Eastern border, with the first deployment of the NATO Allied Reaction Force (ARF), and ‘Eddystone’ was deployed to load many of the seaborne vehicles in Marchwood, and transport them to Alexandroupoli, for overland transfer to Rumania.

Of interest to South African military historians is that the current NATO ARF is made up of 2,500 troops of the British 7th Light Mechanised Brigade, who are better known to military historians by their historical moniker of ‘The Desert Rats’. The Desert Rats fought in North Africa, and up through Italy, during World War Two, and the 7th Armoured Division, as they were then known, included the South Africa Tank Corps and the 4th South African Armoured Car Regiment.

On her current voyage, ‘Eddystone’ had departed from Marchwood, for Gibraltar, on 5th April and where she arrived with military supplies for the British Garrison on 9th April, prior to sailing south to Cape Town. Her stop in Cape Town was, as expected, a short one, and after uplifting her bunkers, stores and fresh provision, she was ready to continue her sealift voyage. After just ten hours alongside, she sailed at 22:00 in the late evening of 25th April, now bound for Mombasa in Kenya.

She arrived in Mombasa on 4th May, at 07:00 in the morning, and her discharge there was completed within seven hours, as she sailed from there at 14:00 on the same day. The call at Mombasa is in support of the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), which has a major training base, located at Nanyuki, which lies 200 km north of Nairobi, as well as having a smaller support base in Nairobi. BATUK contributes an estimated £58 million (ZAR1.34 billion) to the Kenyan economy each year.

BATUK provides training to British Army units who are preparing to deploy on operations, or preparing to assume high-readiness tasks. BATUK trains up to six infantry battalions per year, totaling 10,000 soldiers, over eight-week periods. BATUK also includes Royal Engineers (RE), who conduct three exercises per year, carrying out mainly civil engineering projects, such as road and bridge building in the local communities, as well as bomb disposal techniques for both British and Kenyan Army engineers.

BATUK also includes a Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) regiment, who have two medical company deployments, providing primary health care assistance to the local civilian community. The Health Outreach Clinics are delivered in four Counties, over three day periods, in locations where local communities have limited access to permanent medical facilities. Over the past two years 64 clinics have been completed, treating almost 12,500 patients. This is a permanent free service provided by BATUK to the local Kenyan population.

For ‘Eddystone’ her next port was Duqm, in Oman, where she arrived at 06:00 in the morning of 10th May. Duqm is the location of the United Kingdom Joint Logistics Support Base (UKJLSB), which is based in the port, and facilitates the deployment of Naval forces in the Indian Ocean to provide security patrols, which are provided by the Royal Navy Littoral Response Group (South). Duqm also supports the Joint Training Area (JTA), where joint British and Omani Army training takes place, including Desert Warfare.

For the nomenclature aficionado, ‘Eddystone’ represents the 1882 lighthouse that is located on the Eddystone Rocks, that are located 12 nautical miles southwest of Plymouth, in the UK. It is a famous location, where no less than four lighthouses have been built on the rocks to warn shipping of the dangers of the reef. The first was built in 1696, and washed away in a winter storm in 1703, and the second lighthouse was destroyed by fire in 1755.

The third lighthouse, built by John Smeaton, was the most famous, as it was the first lighthouse in the world to be built using dovetailed granite blocks, which would tighten together when struck by storm waves. It was lit in 1759 and stayed in service until 1882, when the current lighthouse replaced it, and which is visible from the Plymouth shoreline. The Smeaton Tower, as it became known, was dismantled and re-erected on Plymouth Hoe, where it sits today, as a British national maritime historical monument, and is open to the general public, and available to climb, throughout the year.

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AMSOL UPDATE: New offshore tug and Focus on Sustainability

Africa Ports & Ships

AMSOL (African Marine Solutions) is expanding its South African fleet with the addition of an anchor handling tug supply vessel which will be renamed ‘Inkanyezi’ later this month.

AMSOL described the investment of the AHTS as a further expansion of its coastal fleet that together provide coastwide coverage along the Southern African coast and supporting offshore operations across the region.

A simple translation of the name Inkanyezi into English is that the word means ‘Star’.

Inkanyezi joins the other vessels in the fleet which include the ‘Umkhuseli’, ‘Nomasa’ and ‘Siyanda’ to ensure coastwise coverage.

The tug will undergo her naming ceremony later this month at which stage further details of the vessel will become available.

Sustainability Report

In related news, AMSOL has recently published its 2024 Sustainability Report.

This highlights how AMSOL creates value for all stakeholders in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

“At AMSOL, sustainability is about ensuring the long-term positive impact of our business on people, the environment and the industries we serve,” explained AMSOL chief executive officer, Dan Ngakane.

“We’ve recently published our 2024 Sustainability Report which highlights how AMSOL creates value for all stakeholders in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

He said AMSOL’s continued success depends on its ability to grow, adapt, and lead in an evolving maritime sector whilst taking the necessary precautions to protect the environments in which it operates.

The full AMSOL Sustainability Report can be read HERE

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Maersk posts strong Q1 results amid growing global uncertainty

Africa Ports & Ships

Global shipping giant A.P. Moller – Maersk kicked off 2025 with solid financial performance, reporting a 7.8% rise in revenue to USD 13.3 billion for the first quarter.

Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) surged to USD 1.3 billion, a significant increase from USD 177 million in Q1 2024, driven by improvements across all business segments.

Despite a sequential decline in earnings, Maersk described the quarter as a strong start to the year, citing improved profitability in its Ocean business, operational gains in Logistics & Services, and robust volume growth in Terminals.

“We delivered strong results compared to the same quarter last year, driven by momentum in our operational efficiency and a global economy in good shape,” said CEO Vincent Clerc.

He acknowledged rising trade tensions and supply chain uncertainties but emphasised Maersk’s readiness, highlighting its reliable Ocean network, logistics support, and ongoing automation and cost optimisation efforts.

Segment Highlights

Ocean: EBIT climbed to USD 743 million, up from last year, supported by higher freight rates and stable volumes. The newly launched East-West network, introduced in February, is already contributing to reliability and cost savings.

Logistics & Services: EBIT margin improved to 4.1%, boosted by an 18% increase in freight management revenue — especially from Project Logistics — and enhanced fulfilment operations.
<p<> Terminals: Continued to perform strongly with rising volumes, increased revenue per move, and improved storage income. Return on invested capital (ROIC) rose to 14.5%, with automation and better capacity utilisation helping control costs.

Outlook & Shareholder Returns

Maersk reaffirmed its full-year guidance, maintaining projections for EBITDA of USD 6–9 billion and EBIT of up to USD 3 billion, even as it trimmed container volume growth expectations to -1% to 4% for 2025.

The company expects the Red Sea disruptions to persist through the year.

Shareholders received USD 2.5 billion during the quarter through dividends and share buy-backs.

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Veson Nautical secures trio of ISO certifications for data security and privacy

Africa Ports & Ships

Maritime software leader Veson Nautical (whose reports we frequently feature in Africa Ports & Ships) has achieved three key ISO certifications — ISO 27001:2022, ISO 27017:2015, and ISO 27701:2019 — solidifying its commitment to information security, cloud safety, and data privacy across its freight and data management platforms.

The certifications reinforce Veson’s proactive approach to safeguarding sensitive client information, particularly in the highly connected maritime and logistics sectors.

ISO 27001 covers information security management systems (ISMS), ISO 27017 focuses on secure cloud computing, and ISO 27701 addresses privacy information management, especially the protection of personally identifiable information (PII).

“Achieving these certifications shows our dedication to data security at every level,” said Veson CTO Ben Thurecht. “Our clients can be confident that their information is handled with the utmost care and in line with global best practices.”

The accreditation process involved a thorough audit of Veson’s security policies, risk management, and compliance strategies. It positions the company as a trusted digital partner for shipping and logistics firms seeking reliable and secure technology infrastructure.

Veson, which provides a suite of offerings in marine contract management, vessel document management, and data analytics, says it will continue investing in technology and workforce training to stay ahead of cybersecurity threats and evolving global regulations.

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Enclosed space fatalities – Recently published information

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

An appeal to the industry

News has been received of research into a matter of much concern to the maritime industry: enclosed space fatalities.

At the London office of the Oil Companies International Marine Forum
(OCIMF) on 27 March the fourth Enclosed Space Entry – Joint Industry Workshop took place.

To reduce or eliminate deaths

The cross-industry working group drawn from leading maritime organisations gathered to identify measures to reduce or eliminate deaths in enclosed spaces onboard vessels.

Fatalities due to asphyxia on and/or poisoning in the shipping industry continue, despite numerous rules, regulations, and best practice guidance on how to avoid such deaths.

Various related issues identified

In the previous three meetings, the cross-industry working group’s review of prior enclosed space incidents identified operational, commercial, technical and training related issues as recurring contributing factors.

This review also included an analysis of incidents to understand the relationship between vessel type, incident location onboard and the rank or role of the victims.

The working group agrees that the maritime industry does not need new procedures relating to enclosed space entries.

Performance Influencing Factors

Based on preliminary human factor analysis, it has identified the contribution of Performance Influencing Factors (factors that make errors more or less likely) to many of the enclosed space entry incidents.

To deepen understanding

The working group is committed to deepening its understanding and sharing its learnings with the wider industry, with the intention of helping organisations identify and improve these factors to prevent incidents from happening.

The working group recognises that the maritime industry needs to come together to eliminate fatalities associated with enclosed space entry.

Actions expected

Ongoing actions include the means to:

• Develop and implement a standardised ISO recognised enclosed space symbol and advocate the same to the IMO.

• Develop and publish a booklet intended for maritime staff that addresses the human factors and highlights the dangers of enclosed spaces.

• Develop and publish training videos for: (i) shore-side personnel highlighting risks of unintended commercial and operational (time) pressure being put onto ship’s staff and (ii) non-mariner shore-based personnel coming onboard a vessel – highlighting potential dangers of enclosed spaces.

An appeal to share findings

The working group encourages the industry to share relevant incidents or data by completing the survey to be found below.

Members and the wider maritime community have been requested to share as widely as possible the link to the related survey Here.

Any assistance would be much appreciated enabling those involved to carry out this investigation to reinforce the need for positive action to prevent future such fatalities.

In 2018 the first survey had 4986 responses. It is hoped to exceed that figure.

It is important that readers responding provide the approximate date, the ship’s name and a brief description of the accident.

Information gathered will be kept strictly confidential.

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Trade, tariffs and new markets top agenda at Automechanika CEO Breakfast

Africa Ports & Ships

South Africa’s automotive sector is adapting to global trade turbulence, with tariffs, shifting alliances, and infrastructure hurdles taking centre stage at the Automechanika CEO Breakfast held on 8 May at the Centurion Country Club.

Themed ‘The African Connection’, the event brought together key industry leaders to discuss the impact of international trade developments on the region’s automotive and logistics landscape.

Michael Dehn, Managing Director at Messe Frankfurt South Africa, opened the session by highlighting the sector’s pivot toward new trade frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and partnerships within the BRICS bloc.

This year’s US tariff hikes — 25% on vehicles and components and 10% across the board — have dealt a blow to South African automotive exports. Previously, 99% of these entered the US duty-free under AGOA.

The US is South Africa’s second-largest export market, accounting for 15% of auto sector exports, but Q1 2025 saw a sharp drop in exports to the US — from 6% in 2024 to just 2%.

NAAMSA Chief Economist Dr. Paulina Mamogobo said the AfCFTA offers a $3.4 trillion intra-African trade opportunity, but infrastructure remains a limiting factor.

The EU remains South Africa’s largest export destination, with 76% of automotive exports heading there.

Speakers highlighted shifting global dynamics, including:

China’s oversupply of EVs potentially flooding African markets,

India’s competitive edge on cost,

US protectionism nudging manufacturers to invest in South Africa,

And the erosion of AGOA benefits due to new US tariffs.

Ronel Oberholzer of S&P Global warned of increased competition in Africa from Asian automakers, while Jenny Tala of Germany Trade & Invest called for diversification of export markets.

EY South Africa’s Duane Newman pointed out that US retreat from NEV policies could play to South Africa’s strength in ICE vehicle production.

Logistics challenges also featured, with Donald MacKay of XA Global Trade Advisors stressing the need for better transport infrastructure. He noted that although rail is cheaper than road, it’s still five times more expensive than sea freight — a major cost factor in regional trade.

Despite uncertainty, Messe Frankfurt’s Dehn remains optimistic: Exhibitions like Automechanika Johannesburg are key to shaping the trade future for African automotive players, he said.

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Mega Cranes arrive at DCT Pier 2 ahead of peak season

Africa Ports & Ships

Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 is boosting its container-handling capacity with the arrival of four new ship-to-shore cranes, just in time for the busy year-end retail season.

Major Equipment Upgrade Underway

Components for the first two of the four cranes have now been delivered to DCT Pier 2, with commissioning scheduled for October and November 2025 respectively. Each crane costs R242 million and represents a significant technological leap forward for South Africa’s busiest container terminal.

“The South Quay has been under immense pressure due to the limitations of our aging crane fleet,” said Earle Peters, Managing Executive at Durban Terminals. “The arrival of these Liebherr cranes marks a major step forward in restoring reliability, boosting productivity, and ensuring we meet the evolving demands of global trade.”

Powerful New Capabilities

The cranes each feature a 65-ton twin-lift capacity, a seaside outreach of 65 metres, and a lifting height of 43 metres above the quayside—making them well-suited for handling larger container vessels.

Notably, they are built with an offset landside bogie design, allowing conversion from the current 28.5-metre rail gauge to a wider 30.48-metre gauge, enabling future relocation if needed.

Wider Terminal Upgrades

DCT Pier 2 has also expanded its support fleet with:

• • 20 straddle carriers
  • 40 haulers
  • 22 forklifts
  • 26 trailers
  • 2 reach stackers

These upgrades form part of a long-term equipment renewal programme aimed at improving terminal performance and meeting customer expectations.

💰 R1.5 Billion Invested in 18 Months

Over the past year and a half, approximately R1.5 billion has been spent on replacing aging infrastructure at the Durban terminal. This investment underscores Transnet’s goal of unlocking trade growth and enhancing South Africa’s global competitiveness.

Looking Ahead

The first two ship-to-shore cranes are expected to go live by October 2025, with the remaining two operational by November — perfectly timed for the annual spike in container throughput during the festive season.

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TNPA announces 5 preferred bidders for the Richards Bay Liquid Bulk terminals

Africa Ports & Ships

In an announcement on Thursday 8 May 2025, TNPA announced the names of five preferred bidders to develop, manage and operate the liquid bulk and green fuel terminals at the port of Richards Bay.

The terminals will be situated in the South Dunes Precinct of the port and will be managed and operated on a concession basis for a period of 25 years.

The development, worth approximately R17 billion, is an integral part of expanding the port’s liquid bulk handling capacity while advancing South Africa’s energy transition.

The selection of five preferred bidders follows a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued on 6 December 2023 under the Section 56 process of the National Ports Act (No. 12 of 2005).

The successful preferred bidders are:

1. KZN Oils (Pty) Ltd
2. Linsen Nambi (Pty) Ltd
3. Protank (Pty) Ltd
4. Bidvest/Mnambithi Consortium
5. KNGM Engineering (Pty) Ltd

The project will entail funding, design, development, construction, operation, maintenance and transfer of the liquid bulk terminals for a 25-year concession period.

The sites will be designed to handle various petrochemical products that are critical for the economy of the country, including but not limited to diesel, petroleum, jet fuel, marine fuels, biofuel, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), pure butane, pure propane, base oils and bitumen.

This forms part of TNPA’s masterplan for its KwaZulu-Natal ports, aligned with the broader Transnet Segment Strategy.

“The award of preferred bidders for the South Dunes Precinct development is a major milestone in strengthening the Port of Richards Bay’s position as a premier liquid bulk and green fuel hub,” said Richards Bay Port Manager, Captain Dennis Mqadi.

“By securing long-term investment in critical infrastructure, we
are ensuring the port remains globally competitive while contributing to South Africa’s energy security objectives.”

Negotiations to conclude the Terminal Operator Agreements will now commence accordingly.

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WHARF TALK: Japanese cruise ship – ASUKA III

Pictures by ‘Dockrat’ 
Story by Jay Gates

It is a set of well-known statistics that Japan is a very wealthy nation, a member of the G7, with its economy being ranked as the third largest in the world, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$4.21 trillion (ZAR76.92 trillion), which is more than ten times the South Africa GDP of US$380.7 billion (ZAR6.96 trillion). It has been a major economic power for a number of decades, and has a population of over 123 million citizens, who have a GDP per capita spending power of US$33,767 (ZAR616,960) each.

That large GDP includes an industrial base that includes the third largest ship building industry in the world, one which produces almost every type of vessel that the casual maritime observer could think of. Strangely, of all the vessels that they build, one type is pretty much missing, with only the odd one being built, mainly for foreign owners. That vessel is the passenger cruise liner. One would think that a wealthy, and ageing, population of over 123 million folk would make Japan a hotspot for cruises, would also make for a large domestic Japanese cruise industry, and thus a lucrative market for Japanese shipbuilders. But it is not.

Despite everything that Japan should have in regards to the provisions of a cruise industry for its own population, there are only two domestic Japanese shipping company that each operates a single passenger liner capable of deepsea world cruising. Each company’s current, active, passenger liner, was built in Japan as far back as 1990, over 35 years ago. With that in mind, one of the owners decided to go for fleet development, and opt for a newbuild. Strangely they opted for that new passenger cruise liner to be built not in Japan, but instead in Germany.

On 6th May, at 07:00 in the morning, the passenger cruise liner ‘Asuka III’ (IMO 9936355) arrived off Cape Town, from Tenerife in the Canary Islands. She entered Cape Town harbour, proceeding into the Duncan Dock, and was placed alongside the Passenger Cruise Terminal at E berth. Unlike most of the passenger liners before her, who have arrived for a day’s sightseeing by a horde of onboard passengers, ‘Asuka III’ was carrying no passengers. Her call was purely logistical, for a bunker uplift, a stores pickup, and an onload of fresh provisions. The quayside of the passenger terminal was eerily quiet with just a single, unadorned, gangway and no activity.

The reason for her arrival sans passengers is that ‘Asuka III’ is brand spanking new, and heading home on her maiden positioning voyage, directly from the shipyard. She was ordered back in March 2021, with construction starting in September 2023, and being floated out of her undercover construction hall in January 2025. She was built by Meyer Werft GmbH, at Papenburg in Germany, and handed over to her new owners in April 2025, sailing on 18th April for Tenerife. She is 230 metres in length, with a gross registered tonnage of 52,265 tons.

For Meyer Werft GmbH, ‘Asuka III’ was the first passenger cruise liner order that they had received since the Covid Pandemic erupted, and as a result of the restrictions produced by the Covid crisis, ‘Asuka III’ was also the first vessel in the 226 year history of the shipyard in which all design and contract documents were created, negotiated, and approved both online, and via video conference calls only, with no face to face meetings held of any kind between parties.

She is a diesel electric vessel, with power for propulsion provided by four Wärtsilä W8V31DF generators, producing 5,200 kW each, where DF indicates ‘dual fuel’, and an ability to run on both marine diesel as well as liquid natural gas (LNG), as well as domestic power available from two Wärtsilä 8V31 standard diesel generators, providing 4,800 kW each. Power for propulsion is transferred to two Siemens SISHIP eSiPODs, each producing 7,500 kW, to give ‘Asuka III’ a service speed of 22 knots.

Emergency power is provided by a single Mitsubishi S12R-M(P)TA emergency generator producing 1,190 kW. Steam, and domestic heat, is provided by two Alfa Laval Aalborg XWi exhaust gas boilers, and a single Alfa Laval Aalborg CHB-6000 oil fired boiler. For added manoeuvrability ‘Asuka III’ is fitted with two bow Kongsberg TTC 83 transverse thrusters, providing 2,220 kW each.

Costing US$625 million (ZAR11.41 billion) to build, ‘Asuka III’ has 13 decks, of which 9 of them are for passenger use, and 5 of them are set aside for cabins. There a total of 385 cabins, all of which are outside cabins, with balconies. They vary in size from the largest cabin available, which is a Penthouse Suite with a floor area of 114 m2, down to the smallest cabin available, which is a single berth cabin with a floor area of just 19 m2. She can carry 744 passengers with double occupancy, and a maximum of 770 passengers, who are looked after by a crew of 470.

Her passenger facilities include six restaurants, five bars, three lounges, two cafés, Japanese tearoom, smoking lounge, library, boutiques, shops including a florist, theatre, casino, gaming arcade, wellness studio, separate men’s and women’s spa, beauty salon, treatment rooms, gymnasium, two swimming pools, two whirlpool jacuzzis, football court, volleyball court, basketball court, and golf simulator.

Interestingly, from a cultural perspective, and knowing the formality of Japanese society, after 10pm in the late evening, all children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult in any of the ‘Asuka III’ passenger facilities. Additionally, the casino is not available to children under the age of 18 at any time, the wellness studio is not available to children under the age of 16 at any time, the smoking lounge is not available to anyone under the age of 20 at any time, and two of the restaurants are not available to children under the age of 13 at any time.

Owned by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Group), of Tokyo in Japan, which was founded back in 1885, ‘Asuka III’ is operated by NYK Cruises Co. Ltd., of Yokohama in Japan, which was founded in 1989, and she is managed by NYK Line, also of Tokyo. The introduction into service of ‘Asuka III’ might not be the end of the fleet development of NYK Cruises Co. Ltd., as there is an option for a sistership to be built at Meyer Werft GmbH.

The only other passenger vessel of NYK Cruises Co. Ltd., which is still in service, is named ‘Asuka II’, and the first vessel in the fleet was named ‘Asuka’ and is also still in service as ‘Amadea’. Of interest to the casual maritime observer is that all three of the Asuka vessels have called at Cape Town over the period of the last month. On 7th April, ‘Amadea’ (Asuka) called heading north, whilst on a round the world cruise, to be followed on 24th April by ‘Asuka II’, also heading north on a round the world cruise.

Of the big three shipping companies in Japan, the cruise industry was started back in 1962 by Mitsui OSK Line (MOL) with the introduction of ‘Sakura Maru’, which conducted cruises mainly around Southeast Asia for a purely Japanese clientele until 1971 when she was sold on. Today, MOL operates the 1990 built ‘Nippon Maru’, and in September 2024 took ownership of the Seabourn Cruises ‘Seabourn Odyssey’, which entered service in December 2024 as ‘Mitsui Ocean Fuji’. MOL have also announced they intend to build two new passenger liners in 2027.

The stay in Cape Town by ‘Asuka III’ was not expected to be long, as she had no passengers to entertain, and after a short ten hour stay alongside, where the Cape Town bunker tanker ‘Southern Valour’ had provided her with her marine diesel bunkers, she was ready to sail. At 17:00 in the late afternoon she sailed from Cape Town, with her AIS indicating that she was now bound for Port Louis in Mauritius, and a further bunker call en route back to Japan.

On arrival in Japan, NYK Cruises Co. Ltd., have announced her first cruise will take place on 20th July, where she will begin a series of mainly domestic Japanese home waters cruises through to the end of January 2026. Her cruise itinerary has her calling at a total of 30 Japanese ports, over a series of 40 cruises, of which only 2 of them will depart Japanese waters. One cruise will make a single call at Busan in South Korea, and one other cruise will have ‘Asuka III’ wandering further afield, with island calls at both Guam, and Saipan, in the South Pacific Ocean.

The future plans announced by NYK Cruises Co. Ltd., is that after her series of local cruises around Japan, that ‘Asuka III’ will undertake a schedule of regional cruises in 2026, and a round the world cruise, with ‘Asuka II’ taking over the series of domestic waters cruises in Japanese waters. As such, it is highly likely that ‘Asuka III’ will return to South African waters, this time with a full load of Japanese passengers, and with any luck Durban, and other ports along the South African coast, will be on her itinerary, as well as another call at Cape Town.

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Red Sea ceasefire offers diplomatic hope — but maritime risk remains high, says Dryad Global

Africa Ports & Ships
A newly announced ceasefire in the Red Sea region marks a step forward in diplomacy, but shipping risk remains elevated, warns maritime intelligence firm Dryad Global.

Background: Ceasefire Terms in Brief

On 6 May, the U.S. confirmed a halt to its Yemen airstrikes—operations that began in mid-March — following an Oman-brokered ceasefire proposal with Yemen’s Houthi movement. The agreement aims to suspend hostilities between U.S. forces and the Houthis, particularly around the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Continued Threat to Shipping

Although there have been no direct attacks on commercial vessels in the region since late 2024, the Joint War Committee in London has maintained its high-risk classification for these waters. Dryad Global warns that the Houthis remain unpredictable and have previously targeted ships linked to countries far outside the immediate conflict, including Russia and China.

Regional Complications and Geopolitical Shifts

According to reports, the ceasefire excludes the Houthis’ conflict with Israel. Recent Israeli airstrikes on Sana’a Airport, Hodeidah Port, and other sites in Yemen point to ongoing regional volatility. Meanwhile, Iran is said to be withdrawing personnel from Houthi-held areas, possibly to gain leverage ahead of renewed nuclear talks with the U.S.

Saudi Arabia is also urging de-escalation, particularly ahead of a scheduled visit by former President Trump in June.

“We are a long way from declaring a return to safe and stable shipping conditions in the region.”
— Dryad Global spokesperson

⚠️ Advisory

Dryad Global cautions that the Red Sea remains an active threat zone with a high degree of unpredictability. Vessels, particularly those with perceived links to Israel or its allies, should transit the area with caution and seek expert risk assessments before passage.

Further Information

Dryad Global continues to monitor the situation via its Secure Voyager Hub, delivering live intelligence and risk assessments for operators, insurers, and shipping companies navigating complex environments.

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Xeneta suggests a return of container ships to the Red Sea following the US-Houthi ceasefire announcement, could cause global collapse in freight rates

Africa Ports & Ships

Potential return of container ships to Red Sea following US-Houthi ceasefire announcement could cause global collapse in freight rates, according to Xeneta data.

The prospect of a largescale return of container ships to the Red Sea following the announcement of a ceasefire between the US and Houthi militia in Yemen would flood the market with shipping capacity and cause a global collapse in freight rates – but the situation remains far from certain.

Data released by Xeneta – the ocean and air freight intelligence platform – shows global TEU-mile demand would decrease 6% if container ships begin sailing through the Red Sea and Suez Canal again instead of diverting around the Cape of Good Hope.

TEU-mile demand factors the distance each 20ft equivalent container (TEU) is transported globally as well as the number transported. The 6% is based on global container shipping demand growth of 1% for full year 2025 and a largescale return of container ships to the Red Sea in H2.

Peter Sand, Xeneta Chief Analyst, said that of all the geo-political disruptions impacting ocean container shipping in 2025, conflict in the Red Sea continues to cast the longest shadow.

“So any meaningful return to the region would have massive consequences,” Sand said.

“Container ships returning to the Red Sea would flood the market with capacity with the inevitable outcome of collapsing freight rates. If we also see a continued slowdown in imports into the US due to tariffs, then the collapse will be even harder and even more dramatic.”

Impact on freight rates

Average spot rates from the Far East to North Europe and Mediterranean are USD 2,100 per FEU (40ft container) and USD 3,125 per FEU respectively. This is an increase of 39% and 68% compared to pre-Red Sea Crisis levels on 1 December 2023.

From the Far East to US East Coast and US West Coast, spot rates stand at USD 3715 per FEU and USD 2,620 per FEU respectively. This is an increase of 49% and 59% compared to pre-Red Sea Crisis.

Sand said: “Carriers have capacity management strategies to keep rates elevated, such as blanking sailings when demand falls. But the amount of capacity that will flood the market following a return to the Red Sea, combined with a downturn in global container demand due to tariffs and high deliveries of new vessels, would require capacity management at an altogether different order of magnitude – or another major black swan event – to stop freight rates falling to a level that puts carriers in a loss-making position.”

A sense of reality is required

While Sand believes spot rates could collapse back to pre-Red Sea Crisis levels, he has warned the situation remains volatile and requires a sense of reality on the complexity involved in container ships returning to the Suez Canal.

“The announced ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas in February raised restrained hopes of a return of container shipping to the Red Sea but data shows no increase in transits through Bab el-Mandeb Strait or the Suez Canal during 2025,” he said.

“Carriers need assurances over long term safety of their crew and ships, let alone customers’ cargo. Perhaps even more importantly, so do insurance companies.

“We also know Houthi militia will continue to attack some ships because they stated very clearly the ceasefire agreement is with the US and does not include Israel.

“Introducing diversions around the Cape of Good Hope in early 2024 caused massive disruption to global maritime supply chains. Carriers and shippers do not want to go through the disruption of restoring schedules to the Suez Canal only for the situation to deteriorate – sending them back to square one and having to re-introduce diversions around the Cape of Good Hope.”

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IMO and new sulphur emission limits: Mediterranean

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

The Mediterranean Sea officially became an Emission Control Area (Med SOx ECA) under MARPOL Annex VI on 1 May 2025.

The sulphur content in fuel oil for ships operating in the area is now limited to 0.1%, significantly reducing air pollution and delivering major benefits to both human health and the marine environment. This was reported by IMO on 1 May 2025.

Strict mandatory measures

Ships operating in Emission Control Areas for Sulphur Oxides and Particulate Matter, such as the Mediterranean Sea, are now subject to strict mandatory measures to prevent, reduce, and control air pollution.

This new ECA must comply with stricter sulphur content limits than those set by the global standard (0.10% mass by mass (m/m), compared with 0.50% m/m allowed outside SOx ECAs).

Reducing haze

Decreasing SOx emissions from shipping improves human health by lowering rates of lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, strokes, and childhood asthma.
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The environment also benefits significantly, as reduced acidification helps protect crops, forests, and aquatic species. Finally, this measure is expected to reduce haze caused by ships, increasing visibility and decreasing the risk of maritime accidents.

20% of seaborne trade is thro’ Med

The Mediterranean Sea is home to some of the busiest maritime routes in the world, supporting 20% of seaborne trade. It is estimated that more than 17% of worldwide cruises and 24% of the world fleet navigate the Mediterranean Sea.

The Med SOx ECA is the fifth designated Emission Control Area under MARPOL Annex VI, alongside the Baltic Sea area; the North Sea area; the North American area (covering designated coastal areas off the United States and Canada); and the United States Caribbean Sea ECA (around Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands).

In 2024, IMO designated two further ECAs: the Canadian Arctic and the Norwegian Sea. In April 2025, MEPC 83 approved a proposal to designate the North-East Atlantic as an Emission Control Area.

On 1 January 2020, new limits on sulphur content in fuel oil led to a 70% reduction in total sulphur oxide emissions from shipping by setting a maximum sulphur content of 0.5% outside the emission control areas.

* Readers are reminded that the Mediterranean includes the entire North African coastal and inland region

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AGL Terminals launches operations at Cape Town’s A-Berth, Duncan Docks

Africa Ports & Ships

Cape Town – A new chapter in South Africa’s port sector has begun with AGL Terminals, a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics (AGL), officially launching operations at A-Berth in the Port of Cape Town’s Duncan Docks.

This follows the conclusion of a lease agreement with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), effective from 1 April 2025.

The move is being hailed as a significant milestone in private-sector participation in South African port operations, reinforcing TNPA’s goal of improving port efficiency through strategic partnerships.

AGL, a division of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), in collaboration with local partner BALSA, has assumed full operational management of A-Berth, positioning the facility as a key node in Cape Town’s maritime gateway.

Investment in Technology and Talent

AGL has committed to substantial investments in modernising A-Berth’s operations. This includes the introduction of advanced cargo handling equipment, digital systems to streamline logistics, and a robust training programme aimed at upskilling local personnel.

“This lease agreement marks a significant step in our commitment to enhancing port infrastructure and efficiency in South Africa,” said Olivier De Noray, CEO of AGL Ports & Terminals.

“We are combining deep knowledge of African logistics with global best practices to deliver seamless and high-performing port operations.”

Strengthening Cape Town’s Role in Global Trade

By taking over the management of A-Berth, AGL aims to bolster Cape Town’s standing as a regional trade hub. The terminal is expected to handle a variety of cargo types and improve turnaround times, thanks in part to a close collaboration with Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), who will act as the waterside operator.

TPT’s operational expertise is expected to complement AGL’s strategic upgrades, enabling smoother ship-to-shore handling and improved service delivery across the board.

Model for Future Partnerships

The partnership between AGL and TNPA exemplifies the government’s broader aim to attract private-sector investment into South Africa’s port infrastructure.

With TNPA actively supporting the venture, both parties view the A-Berth operation as a potential model for future public-private collaboration across the country’s port system.

A Transnet spokesperson said this was not just about one berth, but was about about demonstrating how smart partnerships can deliver real operational improvements and long-term economic benefits.

About AGL Terminals

AGL Terminals is part of the wider Africa Global Logistics group, which operates 18 container terminals, 7 RoRo/ConRo facilities, and 66 dry ports across the continent.

The launch of A-Berth operations in Cape Town marks AGL’s first foray into South Africa’s terminal landscape, with further expansion anticipated as part of its long-term growth strategy.

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Port Sudan under siege: Drone strikes disrupt key maritime hub

Africa Ports & Ships

Port Sudan, Sudan – In a significant escalation of Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict, the strategic Red Sea port city of Port Sudan has come under sustained drone attacks, marking a dramatic shift in the two-year war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Beginning on 4 May 2025, the RSF launched a series of drone strikes targeting critical infrastructure in Port Sudan, including the Osman Digna airbase, fuel depots, the city’s main container terminal, and the international airport.

These attacks have resulted in widespread fires, power outages, and the suspension of humanitarian aid flights, severely impacting the city’s role as a vital logistics and relief hub.

Port Sudan, previously considered a safe haven and the de facto administrative capital following the RSF’s takeover of Khartoum in April 2023, had largely been spared from direct conflict.

The recent assaults, however, have disrupted this relative stability, threatening the delivery of essential aid to millions of internally displaced persons and exacerbating the country’s humanitarian crisis.

In response to the attacks, the Sudanese government has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of supporting the RSF, leading to the severance of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The UAE has denied these allegations. International actors, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Nations, have expressed concern over the escalating violence and its implications for regional stability.

The RSF has not officially claimed responsibility for the drone strikes. However, the use of such tactics indicates a significant evolution in the group’s operational capabilities and a potential shift in the conflict’s dynamics.

As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, with the hope that renewed diplomatic efforts may lead to a cessation of hostilities and the restoration of peace in the region.

For further updates on this developing story, stay connected to Africa PORTS & SHIPS.

Added 7 May 2025

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News continues below

Flag State implementation: Africa

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

A regional workshop led by IMO in Mombasa has helped maritime professionals in Eastern and Southern Africa enhance their understanding of flag States’ obligations under IMO conventions, and how to authorise Recognized Organizations to ensure these obligations are met.

The Regional Workshop on Flag State Implementation (FSI) and the Authorization of Recognized Organizations held from 7-11 April brought together thirty-nine participants from seventeen countries to promote effective implementation of IMO regulations, and support safe, secure and more environmentally sustainable shipping.

Responsibilities, survey and certification

Hosted by the Kenya Maritime Authority and organized in collaboration with IMO under its Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP), the training focused on flag States’ responsibilities, survey and certification under IMO instruments and how to effectively authorize and oversee Recognized Organizations (ROs).

Flag States play a vital role in ensuring that ships under their jurisdiction comply with international maritime safety, security and environmental standards. ROs working on behalf of flag States are assessed, recognized and authorized under the IMO’s Code for Recognized Organizations (RO Code), which sets minimum criteria for ROs and provides guidelines for oversight by flag States.

Jurisdiction, enforcement, survey and more

Key themes covered during the training included flag State jurisdiction and enforcement, survey and certification, communication of information, and domestic ferry safety. Participants explored strategies for monitoring compliance, managing risks, while enhancing their national maritime frameworks in line with international best practices.

Half of the participants were women, reflecting IMO’s commitment to promoting an inclusive maritime governance. Participants are expected to apply the knowledge gained during the workshop to strengthen flag State performance, particularly in the areas of compliance, survey and certification and applying the RO Code.

Participation

Participating States included: Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Uganda, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Added 7 May 2025

 

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in partnership with – APO

Total cargo handled by tonnes during February 2025, including containers by weight

• see full report for the latest month and year in the news section

PORT	February 2025 – million tonnes
Richards Bay	7.092
Durban	6,201
Saldanha Bay	5.425
Cape Town	1.457
Port Elizabeth	0.946
Ngqura	1.436
Mossel Bay	0.074
East London	0.358
Total all ports during February 2025	22.990 million tonnes

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Terry Hutson