In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, welcomes Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonisation Director at DNV Maritime. With more than 15 years’ experience in the sector and a background in naval architecture, Jason works closely with ship owners, shipyards, and maritime stakeholders worldwide to support the shipping industry’s transition towards cleaner, more efficient operations.

Key Topics:

Guest Bio:

Nautical Numbers:

Navigator’s Table:

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for conversations with industry leaders shaping maritime Germany and the global sector. For more on upcoming events, cluster activities, and maritime perspectives through a German lens, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website. If you found this episode valuable, please share it with maritime colleagues and keep listening for more expert insights from Hamburg and around the world.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Professor Nele Matz-Lück, co-director of the Walter Schücking Institute for International Law at Kiel University and one of Europe’s foremost experts on the international law of the sea. Their discussion explores the legal frameworks governing the world’s oceans, how these adapt (or struggle to adapt) to modern challenges, and the implications for businesses, policymakers, and society at large.

Key Topics:

Guest Bio: Nele Matz-Lück is a professor of Public International Law, with a particular focus on the Law of the Sea, at Kiel University. She is co-director of the Walther Schücking Institute for International Law at Kiel University and a leading authority on international law of the sea. She has held posts at institutions such as the Arctic University of Norway, Dalhousie University in Canada, and the Max Planck Institute for Comparative Public Law and International Law in Heidelberg. In addition to her academic positions, she also serves as a judge at Schleswig-Holstein’s Constitutional Court. Her research bridges ocean governance, environmental law, and human rights.

Nautical Numbers: Professor Matz-Lück’s chosen number is 31, which is the number of landlocked states that are parties to UNCLOS. This underlines how even states without a coastline see vital interests in the rule-based ocean order, with rights to high seas freedoms and responsibilities for maritime governance.

Navigator’s Table: Professor Matz-Lück recommends Seebar in Kiel, a waterside restaurant built over the water with stunning harbour views. For those further afield, she suggests Cow’s Ice Cream at Halifax Waterfront, Canada – perfect for a stroll along the harbour, enjoying maritime sights and flavours.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for conversations with industry leaders shaping maritime Germany and the global sector. For more on upcoming events, cluster activities, and maritime perspectives through a German lens, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with colleagues in the industry and keep listening for more expert insights from Hamburg and around the world.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, welcomes Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy at Hamburg Messe und Congress. The discussion centres on Hamburg’s role as a maritime hub, the city’s unique advantages for convening the international shipping and energy industries, and the future of trade fairs, innovation, and cluster development. Uli shares reflections from over 25 years in the events sector, offering insights into how Hamburg has grown its reputation as a global meeting place for maritime professionals.

Key Topics:

Guest Bio: Claus Ulrich Selbach is Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy at Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH, overseeing a portfolio of leading international trade fairs including SMM and Wind Energy Hamburg. With a background in social sciences and history, and decades of sector experience, Uli is recognised for his strategic approach to networking, business development, and cluster growth in Hamburg and beyond.

Nautical Numbers: Uli’s chosen figure reflects the diversity of future propulsion systems for shipping, emphasising the need for a blend of technologies: hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, LNG, wind, and more. He notes SMM as the only global event where all these solutions can be found together and discussed in depth.

Navigator’s Table: Uli recommends the Hafen-Klub in Hamburg as his favourite maritime dining spot – an exclusive members’ venue offering stunning views of the port and Hanseatic flair. Events can be arranged there, or listeners can try to join as guests for a unique Hamburg experience.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for conversations with industry leaders shaping maritime Germany and the global sector. For more on upcoming events, cluster activities, and maritime perspectives through a German lens, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with colleagues in the industry and keep listening for more expert insights from Hamburg and around the world.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission at UNESCO. Drawing on his extensive experience in international ocean governance, including previous roles in the Norwegian government and the Nobel Foundation, Vidar Helgesen shares insights into global efforts to deepen our understanding of the ocean and protect its vital resources.

Key Topics:

Guest Bio: Vidar Helgesen is Executive Secretary of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. With decades of leadership in international diplomacy, environmental policy, and democracy promotion, he has served as Norway’s Minister of Climate and Environment, Special Representative for the Ocean, and as Executive Director of the Nobel Foundation. His work today focuses on mobilising science, data, and global action for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans.

Nautical Numbers: This episode’s standout figure is 3% – the proportion of ocean biodiversity data contributed by the private sector to UNESCO’s Ocean Biodiversity Information System, with half of that coming from Norway thanks to progressive data-sharing regulations. The discussion underscores the transformative potential if more companies shared their ocean data.

Navigator’s Table: Vidar Helgesen recommends a small seafood shack in Arniston, a coastal village at the southern tip of Africa, as his most memorable maritime dining experience. With the freshest catch and simple hospitality, it serves as a reminder of both the richness of the ocean and the vital livelihoods it supports across the globe.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for more interviews with leaders and experts shaping the maritime sector. Visit the German Maritime Centre’s website for updates, events, and information about Germany’s maritime industry and global maritime developments. If you found this episode insightful, share it with colleagues and partners in the shipping world. Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Joachim Harms, Chairman of the Board at the German Marine Research Alliance (Deutsche Allianz Meeresforschung – DAM). Together, they explore why robust cooperation between marine research and the maritime industry is key to protecting our oceans in an era of rapid industrialisation and climate change.

Key Topics:

Guest Bio: Joachim Harms is Chairman of the Board at the German Marine Research Alliance (DAM), leading the organisation’s efforts to integrate science, industry, and government for evidence-based decision-making in ocean management. With a background as a marine biologist, he has extensive experience in international marine research, coordination of federal and state initiatives, and advisory roles in European partnerships. His earlier career includes research on plankton larvae, coastal fauna, and international fellowships in Japan, Brazil, and France.

Nautical Numbers: This episode’s standout number: 17 – representing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). DAM focuses on fulfilling these interconnected goals, with a particular emphasis on ‘Life below Water’, ‘Climate Action’, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods from the oceans.

Navigator’s Table: Joachim Harms recommends the fish bistro Sandviks Fisk och Hamnkök in the harbour of Sandvik, on Öland, Sweden – a rare place on the Baltic coast where you can enjoy truly fresh, locally-caught fish brought in by the harbour’s fishing vessels. A delicious and authentic maritime experience for any visitor.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for more interviews with leaders and experts shaping the maritime sector. Visit the German Maritime Centre’s website for updates, events, and information about Germany’s maritime industry and international connections. If you found this episode insightful, share it with colleagues and partners in the shipping world. Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Captain Vikas Vij, Director and Treasurer of the Indian Maritime Centre, and Mr Ravi Kumar Moka, Ship Surveyor and Deputy Director General at the Directorate General of Shipping.

Key Topics:

Coastal Shipping Explained: Understanding the distinctive role of coastal shipping in India’s logistics network.

Policy Transformation and Government Vision: Ambitious initiatives driving infrastructure, digitalisation, and regulatory reforms.

Pain Points and Industry Priorities: The private sector’s perspective on first- and last-mile connectivity, multimodal integration, and the necessity for seamless port and commodity-specific infrastructure.

Shipbuilding Goals and Collaboration: India’s strategy to increase its global shipbuilding share from less than 1% to at least 5% by 2030, major investment schemes, shipyard expansion, and the opportunities for joint ventures and equipment suppliers – with a strong focus on German expertise.

Digitalisation and Data Integration: Progress and challenges in India’s maritime digital ecosystem.

Business Opportunities for German and International Firms: Openings in shipbuilding equipment, port infrastructure, terminal management, and technology – driven by government incentives and a push to raise international investment and collaboration.

Guest Bios:

Captain Vikas Vij is the immediate past President of the Indian Coastal Ship Owners Association and Director and Treasurer of the Indian Maritime Centre. He is a Master Mariner, ship owner, and strategic consultant to the Indian coastal shipping sector, with decades of experience spanning ship command, marine management, and industry leadership. He founded I-Marine Infratech and is active in advocacy for ecosystem development and ship finance in India.

Mr Ravi Kumar Moka is a Ship Surveyor and Deputy Director General at the Directorate General of Shipping, which is part of India's Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Nautical Numbers: This episode’s standout number: India aims for a fivefold increase in its global shipbuilding market share by 2030 (at least by 5%). Additionally, coastal cargo volumes are targeted to reach 1,300 million tonnes by 2047 – a reflection of India’s scale and ambition.

Navigator’s Table: Captain Vikas Vij and Mr Ravi Kumar Moka recommend the iconic Sea Lounge at the Taj Mahal Hotel, South Mumbai, overlooking the Gateway of India and the bustling Mumbai harbour. With panoramic sea views, maritime ambience, and a menu blending classic European afternoon tea with Indian street food favourites, it’s the perfect spot for shipping meetings or relaxing by the Arabian Sea.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for more interviews with leaders and experts shaping the maritime sector. Visit the German Maritime Centre’s website for updates, events, and information about Germany’s maritime industry and international connections. If you found this episode insightful, share it with colleagues and partners in the shipping world. Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.

The Waterborne Technology Platform and the EU's R&D&I policy

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr. Matthias Catón sits down with Jaap Gebraad, Secretary General of the Waterborne Technology Platform. Together, they explore the European waterborne sector’s strategies, collaborative efforts, and pathways to innovation, especially as the industry works towards zero-emission and digitalisation goals. Jaap Gebraad shares behind-the-scenes perspectives on how Europe organises research and development priorities for maritime and inland navigation, addresses the complexities of EU funding, fosters business collaboration, and boosts communication about the sector’s progress. The episode also features practical advice for organisations looking to get involved and discusses potential developments for the EU’s maritime sector within the upcoming years.

Key Topics:

-What Is Waterborne? Explaining the Waterborne Technology Platform and its comprehensive approach to both maritime and inland navigation sectors across Europe.

-Engagement with EU Institutions: How the platform works together closely with multiple European Commission departments.

-Membership and Working Groups: How organisations can join and participate in Waterborne’s three focused technical working groups.

-German Lens: An overview of German participation, strengths, and areas for further involvement within the platform.

-EU Funding for Maritime Innovation:A breakdown of key funding programs and tips for SMEs to access them.

-Zero Emission Transition & Industry Challenges: A discussion of decarbonisation and possible public funding solutions to reach zero emission goals.

-Digitalisation and the Future: Current focus on digital innovation, automation, and integration as critical factors for the European maritime sector’s long-term success.

Guest Bio: Jaap Gebraad is the Secretary General of the Waterborne Technology Platform, Europe’s key forum for shaping research and innovation in maritime and inland waterborne transport. Previously, Jaap Gebraad held pivotal roles such as Director of Research and Development at Sea Europe, Executive Director of the Waterborne Technology Platform, and Board Secretary and Senior Project Manager at the Foundation STC Group. His background also includes a tenure as Daily Secretary for the European Association Edina. Renowned for his expertise in guiding collaborative strategies for a sustainable, innovative, and competitive European waterborne sector, he is at the forefront of projects driving zero-emission transport and digital transformation across the industry.

Nautical Numbers: This episode’s striking nautical number: €530 million – the public budget for the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport Partnership via Horizon Europe, with private players simultaneously investing an impressive €3.3 billion, representing a leverage factor of 6 – the highest within Horizon Europe’s partnerships. This underscores the sector’s proactive, innovative spirit that’s too often underestimated.

Navigator’s Table:Jaap Gebraad’s hidden gem recommendation: Varoulko Seaside, a standout fish restaurant nestled in the bay of Piraeus, Greece. It offers stunning ocean views and exceptional seafood, which makes it a perfect spot discovered thanks to business travel. If you find yourself in Athens, make sure to try out this unforgettable maritime dining experience.

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe to Maritime Matters for more insights and interviews with thought leaders shaping the maritime world. To learn more about Germany’s maritime sector or to engage with ongoing debates, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website – and share this episode with colleagues interested in the future of the European maritime industry.

Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr. Matthias Catón is joined by Dr. Reinhard Lüken, Managing Director of the German Shipbuilding and Ocean Industries Association and Chairman of the German Maritime Centre. Their discussion explores whether Europe still has a strategically relevant maritime sector, delves into the continent’s global competitiveness, and questions the role of policy and collaboration amidst mounting competition from Asia, particularly China. Listeners gain an insider’s view of how industrial strategy, skills, and innovation will shape the future of European shipbuilding, and why action – and optimism – are needed now more than ever.

Key Topics:

• The enduring strategic importance of shipbuilding for Europe

Guest Bio:

Nautical Numbers:

Navigator’s Table:

Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe to Maritime Matters for more insights and interviews with thought leaders shaping the maritime world. To learn more about Germany’s maritime sector or to engage with ongoing debates, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website – and share this episode with colleagues interested in the future of the European maritime industry.

Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.