Shipping under fire in the Strait of Hormuz, the impact of tanker rates and the global economy, and Somali piracy making an unwelcome comeback.

These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.

Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of April, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.

Hear more about:

Global trade and growth to slow due to Hormuz closure, warns UNCTAD

VLCC loadings in Yanbu soar due to Hormuz disruption

Under fire in the Strait of Hormuz – a firsthand account

Hengli Heavy Industry secures 108 newbuilding orders in Q1

US blockade of Iranian ports comes into force

IEA cuts oil outlook on ‘largest disruption in history’

Three container ships come under fire from Iran in Hormuz

Global maritime system becoming contested and under threat warns Singapore

Is the tide turning against US opposition to the IMO NZF?

Somali piracy warning as second ship hijacked

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For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com

Connect with Marcus Hand:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Connect with Gary Howard:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

As the world's critical waterways come into sharp focus, the Panama Canal is in the middle of one of the most ambitious transformation phases in its history.

In this episode, recorded at CMA Shipping 2026, Seatrade Maritime News Correspondent Gary Howard speaks with Dr. Ricaurte Vásquez, Administrator of the Panama Canal, about how the waterway is adapting to climate pressures, growing trade volumes, and the energy transition.

They discuss:

• Lessons learned from the recent drought and new plans for water security, including a major new reservoir project
• The vision for an LPG energy corridor and pipeline handling ethane, propane, and butane between the Atlantic and Pacific
• The development of new container terminals and a cross-isthmus road, and how these projects fit into a wider logistics ecosystem
• How the Canal is shifting from simply moving ships to optimising cargo flows and offering more flexible options to customers
• The net-zero transit slot, the Canal’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050, and how shipowners are responding
• Investment models, concession structures, and how Panama aims to balance value for customers, investors, and the Panamanian people

Tune in to hear the plans in place to keep one of the world’s most strategic arteries reliable, competitive, and relevant through to 2050 and beyond.

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For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.

Connect with Gary Howard:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
• Follow on Twitter:: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

In this episode of the Seatrade Maritime Podcast, host Gary Howard sits down with Adam Pang, chief revenue officer at Unimed Maritime Solutions, to map out the digital revolution of healthcare at sea.

Adam reveals how the industry is finally moving toward proactive health management. He shares concrete industry case studies on how aggregating "small signals" from across a fleet, such as spikes in fatigue, minor pain medication usage, or recurring gastrointestinal complaints, allows operators to identify systemic risks like provisioning contamination or ergonomic failures before they escalate into medical evacuations.

Inside the Episode:

• Breaking Data Silos: How centralizing fragmented records reveals hidden infection clusters and prevents outbreaks.
• The Three Pillars of Risk: A look at the three primary challenges facing today's seafarers: chronic conditions, occupational injuries, and the growing mental health crisis
• The "Invisible" ROI: Why investing in nutrition and wellness reduces hidden costs like crew turnover and lost operational efficiency.
• The Tech Stack of the Future: The role of AI, wearables, and portable diagnostics in creating the "Self-Aware Ship".

Stop treating medical incidents as isolated events and start treating crew health as a core operational strategy.

Tune in to discover how data-driven insights are making safer ships, healthier crews, and more resilient operations the new industry standard.

An estimated 20,000 seafarers are stranded in the Gulf - what is it really like to sail through a war zone in a commercial tanker?

In this gripping episode, we hear from Arjun Vikram Singh, CEO & MD of Quantum and former ship captain, as he recounts his experiences sailing through the Strait of Hormuz during the Iran-Iraq War.

Arjun shares firsthand accounts of navigating dangerous waters in a large tanker and the events that unfolded a voyage on the VLCC Caribbean Breeze when it was struck by an Iranian missile

The conversation between Arjun and host Marcus Hand Editor Seatrade Maritime News, explores the risks seafarers face in war zones and how his past experiences resonate with today’s situation in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. Join us for a deep dive into the realities of seafaring in conflict zones.

The conversation covers

• Arjun’s background and life as seafarer in the 80’s
• Typical voyages through the Strait and the Gulf during the Iran – Iraq war
• The experience of the missile strike on the VLCC Caribbean Breeze
• Reflections on risk and safety
• Comparing seafaring past and present in conflict zones

Listen now to hear Arjun's full story

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For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.

Connect with Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of March, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.

Ships and ports targeted as Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz in Middle East war, Star Bulk joins Genco and Diana Shipping takeover battle, and can the IMO’s net zero framework survive?

These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.

Hear more about:

• India demand and Panama pipeline positive for VLGCs, says Dorian LPG
• Ships avoid the Strait of Hormuz, tanker hit off Oman
• Is the Strait of Hormuz really closed?
• Strait of Hormuz focus page
• Trump's 'show some guts' comment problematic for shipping
• CMA Shipping focus page
• Strait of Hormuz crisis - a legal perspective
• Three crew believed trapped on Precious Shipping bulker hit in Strait of Hormuz
• Explosions after two tankers struck off Iraq
• Genco rejects Star Bulk-backed Diana Shipping bid
• US calls for abandonment of IMO’s Net Zero Framework
• UK forces given green light to board sanctioned vessels
• Shipowners fear fuel shortages if Iran war continues
• Kuwaiti VLCC on fire after attack off Dubai

Clip of US President Donald Trump announcing strikes on Iran on 28 February courtesy of BBC

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.

For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com

Connect with Marcus Hand:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Connect with Gary Howard:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

In this episode, we sit down with Ganesh Raj, Global Chief Operating Officer of Marine Services DP World, to discuss the evolution of the marine services sector and the company's strategic growth through acquisitions.

Speaking with Marcus Hand Editor of Seatrade Maritime News Ganesh shares insights into the rebranding of services into Shipping Solutions, Multimodal Solutions, and Maritime Solutions, emphasizing the importance of customer-focused solutions.

He also highlights the company's plans for fleet expansion and sustainability, alongside the challenges and opportunities in the logistics and marine industries. Listen now in for a comprehensive overview of DP World’s Marine Services business and where it is headed.

The conversation includes:

1. An overview of DP World's marine services business model
2. Growth through acquisitions
3. Rebranding container feeder services to Shipping Solutions
4. Fleet expansion plans for Shipping Solutions
5. Maritime Solutions overview
6. Multimodal Solutions and future plans
7. Continuous growth and consolidation
8. Leadership and management insights
9. Vision for the future

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.

For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.

Connect with Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

The war in Iran is dominating headlines with the impact on shipping and trade high up the agenda.

In this episode, Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News speaks with Punit Oza, Founder of Maritime NXT, about the ongoing war in Iran and its significant implications for global trade. They discuss the changing geopolitical landscape, the role of misinformation in modern conflicts, and how the effective closure of Strait of Hormuz is affecting energy supplies and food security.

The discussion between Punit and Marcus covers:

The changing nature of the Middle East and US involvement in oil trade

Role of misinformation and social media in modern warfare

Direct economic and trade impacts of the conflict

Indirect economic challenges

A revival of renewable energy due to high prices

Who are the beneficiaries of the war?

The long term impact on geopolitical and trade relationships

Listen to the full episode now to learn more

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads. Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

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Follow Punit Oza:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/punit-oza-fics-afni-llb-m-sc-6149893/

In this episode, we examine the impact of significant disruptions in shipping operations due to the escalating conflict in the Gulf region.

Seatrade Maritime News Editor Marcus Hand speaks with maritime lawyer Menelaus Kouzoupis, Partner with Stephenson Harwood, who provides insights into the legal implications for shipowners navigating these turbulent times. From the de facto closure of the Straits of Hormuz to the skyrocketing war risk insurance premiums, this discussion sheds light on the complex challenges faced by the shipping industry amidst geopolitical tensions.

The conversation covers

1. The current situation
2. Is the Strait of Hormuz closed?
3. The impact on insurance premiums
4. Vessels stranded in the Gulf – who pays?
5. Can a shipowner refuse to sail?
6. The risks to vessels stranded in the region
7. The difficult situation faced by crew
8. The possibility of naval escorts

Listen now to hear more about all of these crucial topics

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.

For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com.

Connect with Marcus Hand, Editor of Seatrade Maritime News:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

Panama port battle, Hapag-Lloyd buys Zim, and VLCCs go bananas.

These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.

Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of February, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.

Listeners please note this episode was recorded the day prior to the US/Israel attack on Iran on 28 February

Hear more about:

Panama declares CK Hutchison’s Panama Ports concession unconstitutional

CK Hutchison: Panama terminal takeover ‘unlawful’, ceases operations

Six-year jail sentence for Solong captain

Container lines’ Red Sea mixed messages confuse shippers

SeaLead plummets in shipping line rankings

Hapag-Lloyd’s acquisition of Zim an era defining moment

Trump’s Maritime Action Plan floats foreign built vessel US port fee

Gemini shines as container line punctuality plummets in 2026

Red hot VLCC market hits new highs amid US – Iran tensions

Reward offered for ‘missing’ dark fleet VLCC

Listen to the full episode now

Red Sea hokey-kokey, the top risk for shipping businesses in 2026, and a booming dark fleet market.

These are just some of the stories that are covered in the latest episode of Maritime in Minutes.

Seatrade Maritime News’ Marcus Hand and Gary Howard reflect on the month of January, with their highlights from the news in maritime and shipping, from the biggest stories to those that simply piqued their interest.

Hear more about:

IMO rules understate benefits of utilising captured carbon, says GCMD

Singapore report highlights crew fatigue in Hafnia Nile and Ceres I collision

Shipping sees regulatory changes as biggest risk to business in 2026

Asian shipping execs negative on IMO Net Zero Framework prospects

CMA CGM reverts services to Cape of Good Hope

Two dead, 15 rescued from capsized bulker off Philippines

Repeat orders mark wind propulsion success stories

Dark fleet ship-to-ship transfers off Malaysia more than double

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to ensure you don't miss our latest uploads.

For the latest news on the shipping and maritime industries, visit www.searade-maritime.com

Connect with Marcus Hand:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcushand1
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-hand-b00a317/

Connect with Gary Howard:

• Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaryLeeHoward
• Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyleehoward/

Don't forget to join the conversation and let us know what topics you want us to cover in future on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn