Maritime news . Week 50
Odfjell Launches Green Corridor
Odfjell has launched the world’s first operational green corridor for chemical tankers between Brazil and Europe, covering 5,000 nautical miles. All voyages run on a certified B24 biofuel blend, cutting emissions on every passage. The corridor is designed for 12–15 voyages per year, with each trip lasting about 40 days. Long-term biofuel supply is secured in Rio Grande, while Antwerp-Bruges, Rotterdam and Rio Grande ports are improving turnaround efficiency. The project is fully funded by Odfjell and forms a core part of its long-term decarbonisation strategy.
https://www.marineinsight.com/shipping-news/odfjell-launches-first-operational-green-corridor-between-brazil-and-europe/
Japan’s Autonomous Passenger Breakthrough
Japan is launching the world’s first commercial autonomous passenger ship, Olympia Dream Seto. The ferry will operate between Okayama and Shodoshima Island and is officially certified by the government as an “autonomous ship.” It can independently navigate, avoid obstacles, and control rudder and propulsion, with manual override available. The project targets crew shortages and aims to reduce accidents caused by human error. Full commercial operations are expected by March 2026.
2026: Trade-Offs Over Fuels
In 2026, shipping decarbonisation will shift from bold targets to hard commercial trade-offs. Breakthrough fuels are unlikely, with limited supply, high prices, and fragmented regulation still dominating. FuelEU Maritime will act as the industry’s real stress test, accelerating the use of biofuels, pooling mechanisms, and digital emissions tracking. Owners and charterers will increasingly clash over who pays for emissions, while vessel selection will depend on carbon profile and data credibility, not just freight rates. 2026 will be defined by pragmatic, compliance-safe decisions rather than green promises.
Zero-Emission Autonomous Clipper
California-based Clippership has contracted Dutch yard KM Yachtbuilders to build a 24-metre RINA-approved, zero-emission autonomous vessel. The ship will use twin foldable rigid wing sails as its primary propulsion and is designed for open-ocean autonomy. Launch is planned for late 2026, targeting transatlantic, Caribbean and South American routes. It will carry up to 75 Euro-pallets in a climate-controlled cargo hold. The project aims to open new point-to-point trade routes while drastically cutting emissions.