Forum Moderator

Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA

Apo is the Founder & CEO of SQE Group (www.sqegroup.com), including SQE MARINE, SQE ACADEMY, SAFETY4SEA and RISK4SEA educated as a Mechanical Engineer (B.Eng & MSc (Eng), MBA) specializing in Energy & Environment. He is a 30 year veteran with roles as Engineering Superintendent, Maritime Safety, Quality & Environmental Expert, Consultant, Trainer and Project Manager and his track record includes a wide range of QHSE projects including 250+ management system projects (ISM/ISPS/ISO 9001-14001-18001/TMSA/MLC/DryBMS), 500 vessel and office audits to various standards, regulatory development and a record of more than 10,000 people trained in a wide variety of QHSE and Shipping related subjects.  He has chaired more than 90 Forums and moderated more than 400 panels in Safety, Green and Smart related issues. Apo is the founder and Managing Editor of SAFETY4SEA that hosts the leading safety4sea.com, (300k visitors monthly) producing monthly magazines & tailored publications (100k p.a. circ. onboard & ashore) & Industry Surveys  delivering more than 15 major forums and awards events across the globe every year.

Speakers (listed in alphabetical order)

Capt. Mohit Batra, Vice Chair, Nautical Institute Middle East Branch

Capt. Mohit Batra is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of SMN Safety Group with offices in Singapore and UAE. He is an Associate Fellow and the Vice Chair of the Nautical Institute Middle East Branch. An astute business professional, entrepreneur, and proactive leader with over three decades of diverse cross functional experience across the maritime industry. Capt. Batra has in the past held several senior positions with leading multinational maritime organisations, being involved in various aspects of business from spearheading marketing, sales, and business development strategies to implementing effective supply chain solutions and advising maritime owner, operators, banks and financial institutions on asset valuations, acquisition investment in the maritime infrastructure and organic growth opportunities. An avid golfer, enthusiastic professional speaker, author, motivational leader, safety auditor, expert witness and a qualified GLG
Global educator. He is a qualified Master Mariner and holds a post-graduate MBA degree from Oxford, UK.

Capt. Anuj Chopra, Managing Director, MaritimESG Middle East Projects Management LLC

Captain Anuj Chopra is an international executive, enterprise risk manager, and big data champion who has successfully forged client relationships in the maritime industry for more than three decades. His deep experience developing ethical, customer-focused EQ & SQ cultures has led him to conclude high-value contracts with some of the largest shipping companies in the world. Captain Chopra cofounded ESGPlus LLC, an international consulting firm focused on bringing resiliency, efficiency, and independent board advisory to clients invested in the global maritime supply chain. ESGPlus promotes sustainability, increased safety standards, and reduces the environmental impact of the maritime industry. Captain Chopra guides ESGPlus as a diversity-focused company, providing client value by promoting exemplary, transparent customer solutions for a sustainable and resilient maritime supply chain. In January 2024 Captain Chopra founded MaritimESG Middle East Projects Management LLC, an Abu Dhabi mainland company, to extend the expertise and offerings of ESGPlus, while focusing on projects related to ESG education and implementation, sustainability in Supply chains, Global food aid supply chain optimization and Enterprise risk management. Before his time at ESGPlus, Captain Chopra spent nearly a decade as a Vice President of RightShip, negotiating high-level due diligence and compliance agreements. Prior to his time at RightShip, he served as the President of Anglo-Eastern Houston, with direct oversight of vessels visiting US ports, risk evaluation, and government relations. Captain Chopra began his seafaring career as a deck cadet, working his way up to Captain. He has commanded large bulk carriers and tankers and holds a Commonwealth Extra Masters Certificate of Competency, Shipping Management from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, India, and ACUE Certification. Captain Chopra currently serves as a Fellow of The Nautical Institute (Committee Member of the UAE Branch), a U.S. Ambassador for the Sailor Society, Advisory board member of the Houston Maritime Center and on the Board of Directors at the Houston International Seafarers Center respectively. He was the immediate past President of the Industry Advisory Board for the Supply Chain & Logistics Technology Degree at the University of Houston, and he has served as a lecturer or teacher for more than 32 years. Captain Chopra is also a Board Member and Treasurer of the North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) and a member of NOAA’s Federal Advisory committee titled Hydrographic Services Review Panel. He continually mentors’ students and professionals in the maritime supply chain and is an Adjunct Professor for the Supply Chain & Logistics Technology Program at the College of Technology, University of Houston. He is the Co-Author and Assessor for NAMEPA’s ESG Maritime Sustainability Passport Program and also periodically runs workshops on ESG101, ESG201 & ESG301 related to the maritime domain.

Capt. Anwar Farah, Vice President Sustainability, Bahri 

Capt. Anwar has a successful and versatile career within the maritime industry spread across a period over two and a half decades. Proficient in developing policies, upholding service standards, planning & implementing effective control measures for safe and efficient operation, project management, auditing, risk management, compliance, internal controls, crisis management, business continuity incident investigation, OCIMF TMSA/SIRE marine vetting. An accomplished maritime professional with years of progressive advancement through continuous records of success driving integrated management systems. Providing strategic leadership to departments, functions & corporate support for companies & client’s project managers. Dedicated to lifelong learning on the development and co-ordination of safety management, quality and environmental pollution prevention standards. Additionally, he has a proven track record in strategic leadership and experience in influencing internal and external stakeholders. Capt. Anwar started his career at sea in 1997 part of Saudi Aramco’s College Degree Program for non-employees (CDPNE) and qualified as OOW in 2002. He joined Vela International Marine Ltd sailing on ULCC, VLCC and product tankers until late 2014. In early 2015, he joined Aramco Trading Company (ATC), the trading arm of Saudi Aramco and the lead premier trading company within the middle east establishing the Marine Quality Assurance department. By mid 2018, he joined International Maritime Industry (IMI), the largest maritime yard in the MENA region heading the HSEQ department. In-charge of IMI integrated management system (IMS). In January 2020, Capt. Anwar returned to Bahri Ship Management as company DPA and heading the HSEQ department. Finally, he was appointed as Bahri Vice President of Sustainability effectively from 1 st of September 2024. Capt. Anwar graduated from Warsash Maritime Academy. A certified UK Master Mariner and holding a degree in Marine Operation from Southampton Solent University. He is an approved certificate of competency oral examiner for merchant marine deck officers for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Transport General Authority, assessing and qualifying young Saudis starting their career at sea. A sector in which Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in support of the Kingdom 2030 vision. Capt. Anwar Farah has recently been appointed as Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN) Board Member.

Philippos Giannakos, Senior Sales Manager, South Europe, Middle East and Africa, NAPA

Philippos Giannakos represents NAPA as a Senior Sales Manager in South Europe and the Middle East and Africa region. Philippos has gained experience working with most vessel types applying innovative technologies for Performance Monitoring and Voyage Planning. The target is to optimize operations, save fuel, and reduce the carbon emissions imprint of the vessels. Philippos’ background is in Industrial and Marine Automation, with hands-on experience in commissioning automation systems onboard ships. For years, he has had the opportunity to meet and work with shipping companies worldwide and gain insight into smartly navigating the future demands of shipping.

Colin Holloway, Regional Chair, The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA)

Colin Holloway’s career in the oil and maritime industry spans more than 30 years during which he has gained extensive knowledge of a broad range of technical, commercial, and operational activities throughout the Middle East and Africa region. Colin started his career as a chemist at the Coryton oil refinery in Essex, England, and eventually relocated to the Middle East for the SGS Inspection Group, where he gained extensive product knowledge, including the full spectrum of petroleum products, petrochemicals, and bulk commodities. Further landmarks of his career saw Colin at DNV Petroleum Services, where he was introduced to the technical world of bunkering and the maritime side of the business, as well as at a local bunker trader and Fujairah-based physical supplier strengthening his comprehensive industry know-how. As Global Head – Technical at Cockett Group, Colin is responsible for all technical aspects of marine fuel, reselling, petroleum products and services worldwide, while overseeing the Group’s technical strategy and approach. This includes the implementation of new systems, training, tools, policies, and procedures.

Capt. Zarir Irani, Business and Event Lead – ICS Middle East, ICS Middle East

Capt. Zarir S. Irani FICS, Hon. FIIMS, FNI, ACII, Asso. AAA, MBA The Chair at Board of Directors at Constellation Marine Services, London & UAE Honorary Fellow & Current Board member of International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS) Charman Elect for Nautical Institute UAE Branch Institute of Chartered Ship Brokers – UAE Branch Committee member (second term) Ambassador of Baltic Expert Witness Asso. (B.E.W.A.) Founding Member Emirates Maritime Law Association A Master Mariner with a valid MCA license (until 2027) from UK for unlimited vessel size and geographical area and with over 35 years of work experience in the maritime and yacht industry, Capt. Irani is the founder of a leading Marine Surveying firm M/s. Constellation Marine Services LLC. Capt. Irani is the exclusive Deputy Registrar of Antiqua and Barbuda Maritime Registry (a white listed flag with IMO) and was invited in 2022 to join the advisory committee of Lloyds Register Marine and Shipping (MEA). He has overseen over 28,000 independent global consultancy nominations since 2007 with Constellation Marine Services. Capt. Irani is currently involved in two expert witness assignments, one of bulk cargo cross-contamination and the other concerning a barge sinking, both under English law. He has given Expert Witness testimonials at Abu Dhabi Court of Appeal and DIFC dispute resolution centre (arbitration) as well as having been on the panel of experts with EMAC (UAE). Capt. Irani has been on the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) UAE Branch Committee since 2019 and has served on its education committee since 2008. He is currently on the global assurance committee of the Nautical Institute, UK.

Christopher Kirton, Managing Director, International Tanker Management

Chris has a strong ship management background with international experience gained during the past 30 years of executive positions in Ship Management. Following a career at sea, culminating in 5 years sailing as Chief Engineer, Chris worked in London, Melbourne, Singapore and Dubai holding various senior positions before joining V.Group in April 2020. Chris has hands on experience of managing all vessel types with an emphasis on tanker management and has held senior positions with Ship Owners, 3rd party Ship Managers and an Oil Major. Chris is a Chartered Engineer and an active member of the IMarEST, as well as being the Chairman of the Lloyds Register SEA Technical Committee and a member of the ABS, DNVGL and ClassNK ME & SEA technical committees. Chris has a strong interest in seafarers education and welfare as well as a professional curiosity for all things maritime.

Konstantina Kottoros, Board Member at WISTA UAE & Managing Director and Senior Legal Counsel at Mercuria Energy Trading Middle East DMCC

Dina Kottoros is the Managing Director and Senior Legal Counsel of Mercuria Energy Trading Middle East, a world leading independent energy and commodity trading firm headquartered in Geneva.  She holds a BSC with honours in Maritime Business with Maritime Law from the University of Plymouth, and an LLM in Maritime Law from Southampton University.  She has combined experience in shipping and law for approximately 18 years and currently practicing in the region since 2008 for both in-house and firm roles. As well as managing the day-to-day running of the Dubai office, she wears multiple hats within the firm, as Group Company Secretary, managing the legal department in Dubai, and holding multiple directorships throughout the Group.

Stylianos Marantis, Marine Management Systems Manager, Middle East and Africa Marine & Offshore, EMEA, Lloyd’s Register

Stylianos Marantis is an ISM-ISPS Lead Auditor, MLC/ILO Lead Specialist, and ISO 9001/14001/18001/50001/ISPO Lead Auditor, based in Dubai. He provides technical advice and support to auditors and assessors across the Middle East and Africa regions. His responsibilities include client-facing BDT support and assisting the Dubai Marine Green Team. He conducts management system audits both ashore and onboard for key LR clients, primarily in the MEA and GEMA regions. Additionally, he is a highly experienced trainer, responsible for delivering and/or developing relevant training sessions, seminars (both public and tailor-made), and presentations for LR’s key clients and stakeholders, mainly in the Middle East, Southern Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Capt. Abhay Nimbalkar, CEO, Greenfield Marine Technologies

Capt Abhay Nimbalkar is a seasoned Master Mariner with over 20 years experience at sea apart from 8 years in a corporate role with ADNOC in Abu Dhabi . Currently spearheading Greenfield Marine Technologies based out of Abu Dhabi which is an AI Driven Software company focusing on Sustainability in the Maritime domain .

Octavio Arturo Rangel Palm, Head of Dubai Regional Office General Directorate of Merchant Marine, Panama Maritime Authority

Octavio Arturo Rangel Palm is an experienced maritime professional with over 27 years in the sector, combining expertise as a Merchant Marine Officer and Lawyer. He holds a Degree in Nautical Science from the Portugal Naval Academy and has significant seafaring experience. Upon returning to Panama in 1996, he began training as a Maritime Safety Inspector with the Panama Flag Registry. He was subsequently appointed, based on merit, as Admiralty Court Marshal in the Panama Supreme Court of Justice, where he served for 17 years alongside Judge C. Malcolm. In 2010, Rangel Palm obtained a degree in Law and Political Science in Panama, further enhancing his legal and maritime expertise. He also founded his own marine container repair company. In 2014, he returned to the Panama Maritime Authority, where he held several key positions, including Chief of the Training Department, Technical Officer for Seafarer Assessment in Manila, and Head of the Regional Office in Dubai, overseeing Seafarers and SEGUMAR (ship safety). Additionally, he served as a Marine Casualty Investigator, Flag Inspector, ISO Lead Auditor, Flag Internal Auditor, MLC Auditor, and Flag Advisor for IMO Committees. Rangel Palm is known for his wide range of technical skills, auditing capabilities, and leadership in maritime safety and compliance.

Harilaos Petrakakos, Marine Consulatnt , P&P Marine Consultants Inc.

Harilaos Petrakakos is a Marine Consultant since 1977. He has successfully supported owners, banks and insurance companies with his expertise in Ship Building, Marine Claims for Cargo, Hull, Machinery, Collisions, Fires, Sinking, Technical Management. He has lectured to Shipyards on Shipbuilding Quality and Shipbuilding Contracts. He is a presenter in maritime fora, in a number of subjects. He is a graduate of MIT with an M.Sc., in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering and one in Shipping and Shipbuilding Management. He has been and is advising many Greek and Foreign based shipping firms in their choices of energy efficiency and acts as external auditor for owners and private equity funds to assess the assets (ships and crew) condition. He is a member of SNAME, ELINT, The Propeller Club of Piraeus, and MIT Alumni Club of Greece. He is a member of the board of MIT Start Smart (JEWEL) in Greece. He is the Chairman of Fundraising and scholarships committee at SNAME – Greek Section. He is the Chairman of the Panel O-48 “Atomic Power in Commercial Ships” of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers based in the USA.

Dr. Ibrahim Behairy, Manager of Global Sustainability, ABS

Dr. Ibrahim Behairy is the Manager of Global Sustainability at ABS Based in Dubai, UAE. Dr. Behairy is a distinguished Marine Engineer with over 35 years of experience in the industry, during which he has received numerous awards and accolades. Prior to ABS, Dr. Behairy was the Managing Director for the Middle East at WinGD He began his career as a Marine Engineer and later joined Wartsila, where he spent over 8 years at their headquarters in Switzerland before relocating to their office in the U.A.E. He has been residing in the U.A.E. for over 10 years. Dr. Behairy is widely respected for his significant contributions to the Marine Industry, as well as his impact on the U.A.E. and the entire GCC region.

Ali A. Shehab, Global Director of Special Projects & Services, Maritime, DNV AS, Dubai Branch

Ali Shehab is a maritime professional actively serving the maritime industry since the past 38 years. He is an ex seagoing Marine Chief Engineer who started his carrier in the 1985 at South Tyneside College (UK) as marine engineer cadet with Kuwait Oil Tanker Company the National Maritime Transportation arm of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), and to become the company Acting CEO in 2018 and after 32 years of service. During the said period, he served in various managerial positions of the Company, including 7+ years as Deputy Chief Executive Officer Fleet Operations where he oversaw KOTC’s Oil Tanker Fleet Operations, Marine Agency, and the main Gas Filling Branches that supply domestic and industrial LPG to the State of Kuwait. In Feb 2021, he completed almost 36 years of service with Kuwait oil Tanker Company, after which he retired from that position and the company.Presently, he is the DNV Global Director of Special Projects & Services – Maritime, where his role to streamline the regional and global ongoing projects and services, as well as, development of market share and strengthen the position of DNV in the Maritime and Oil & Gas Industries. He is also Member of the Board of Trustees of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and Member of Industry Advisory Board for the Marine Engineering Technology Programme at Sharjah Maritime Academy, he is also an Independent Director on the Montfort Maritime Capital Board of Directors, and ISWAN  Ambassador – Gulf Region.

Valentinos Steliou ,Innovation Director/ MD Cyprus, Mintra

Following the acquisition of Safebridge GmbH in 2021, Valentinos was appointed as an Innovation Director for Mintra and the Managing Director of its Cyprus Entity, leading the company’s Crew Management software. Valentinos has a diverse background in business development, product development, project management, and finance, supporting the operations and strategic positioning of organisations for over 20 years. With great experience and a successful track record in strategy design, product release and positioning principles within the maritime industry, he is paving the future of the product successfully supporting the company’s operations. Before joining Safebridge in 2016, Valentinos provided Strategic Consultation services and held senior management positions in the construction and automotive industries.

Capt. Manoj Tyagi, Marine Manager / ADPA / ACSO, TOMINI SHIPPING

Capt. Manoj Tyagi began his maritime career in 1990, sailing with Wilhelmsen Ship Management, where he served until 2015, spending 12 of those years as a Master. In 2015, he transitioned to shore-based operations, joining Wilhelmsen Ship Management Korea as Marine Manager. In 2020, he moved to Tomini Shipping Company, where he currently serves as Marine Manager, overseeing the maritime operations of the fleet and reporting to senior management. Capt. Tyagi holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Nautical Science and a Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Maritime Management from the World Maritime University, Malmo, Sweden. Additionally, he earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with specializations in Asset Management, Corporate Law, Financial Risk Management, and Logistics & Supply Chain Management. He is also certified as a Lead Auditor in Occupational Health & Safety Management (ISO 45001:2018), Quality Management (ISO 9001:2015), and Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2015).

LEAD SPONSORS

American Club

American Steamship Owners Mutual Protection and Indemnity Association, Inc. (the American Club) was established in New York in 1917. It is the only mutual Protection and Indemnity Club domiciled in the United States – indeed, in the entire Americas. The Club is a member of the International Group of P&I Clubs, a collective of thirteen mutuals which together provide Protection and Indemnity insurance for some 90% of all world shipping. Protection and Indemnity insurance (commonly referred to as “P&I”) provides cover to shipowners and charterers against third-party liabilities encountered in their commercial operations. Responsibility for damage to cargo, for pollution, for the death, injury or illness of passengers or crew and for damage to docks and other installations are examples of typical exposures. Running in parallel with a ship’s hull and machinery cover, traditional P&I such as that offered by the American Club distinguishes itself from ordinary forms of marine insurance by being based on the not-for-profit principle of mutuality where Members of the Club are both the insurers and the assureds.

www.american-club.com

Mintra

Mintra is a leading provider of digital learning and human capital management systems for safety-critical industries worldwide. Mintra develops and deploys software solutions that enable its clients to develop and deploy their people, readily demonstrate compliance and maximise operational efficiency. From its headquarters in Bergen and offices in Oslo, Stavanger, Aberdeen, Cyprus, India and Manila, Mintra serves the training, HR, payroll and workforce management needs of organisations operating in the maritime and energy sectors. ,Trainingportal – a learning and competency management platform – provides an online portfolio of over 2,600 eLearning courses to over 1.7 million workers, while OCS HR crew management system supports the operations of more than 1,800 vessels worldwide.

www.mintra.com

SQEMARINE

SQE Marine is a leading provider of Safety, Quality and Environmental Solutions providing Consulting, Training and Information products in these areas. We have been successfully providing a product and service range to more than 1,200 clients (based in 75+ countries) over the last 20 years, operating a DNVGL Certified Training Center and a LR ISO 9001 certified management system. Strong enough to provide immediate response and feedback to all client queries and needs, we provide a range of competitively priced services and timeliness for product / service delivery; we provide foolproof products and services to ensure full after sales support for as long as necessary. Last but not least, technical competence is the core of our management system & operations. Our vision is to be a leading world class corporation that provides reliable maritime solutions in the areas of Quality, Health, Safety, Environmental, Crisis, Security, and Risk Management. Our mission, therefore, is to provide real life, effective and efficient maritime solutions range including Consulting, Training and Information provision in order to maximize client benefit and minimize risk.

www.sqemarine.com

SPONSORS

ARCADIA SHIPMANAGEMENT CO. LTD

Arcadia Shipmanagement Co. LTD was established in Athens in 1998 with a clear strategic goal – “the safe transportation of cargoes worldwide with respect to the environment”. Initially the Company assumed the management of two different types of vessels (dry and wet) but at a later stage ARCADIA, realizing the increased demands and responsibilities of the current times, focused its activities on tanker management. Following the Company’s establishment in 1998, an ambitious investment program began with the construction of high specification aframax and suezmax tankers, in South Korean Yards, on behalf of Companies that had entrusted the management of their vessels to ARCADIA.

www.arcadiasm.gr

Blue Planet Shipping Ltd

Blue Planet Shipping Ltd (BPS) was established and based at Piraeus since 1996, to manage 8 Dry Bulk Carriers. In 1998, BPS split into two separate companies. BPS retained its root name and Third Millenium Shipping Ltd (TMS) was set up to manage vessels for different owners. BPS managed 7 out of the 8 vessels; (AKMI – ARIS – EVMAR – COSMAR – ALMAVITA – AFROS & ALKIMOS) and the management of the ASTROMAR was undertaken by TMS. In 2002, clients of the company placed an order for 6 New Building Supramax vessels in China, of which 5 were delivered in 2003 and 1 in 2004. The new vessels (APOLLON – APEX – AKMI – EVNIA – NICOLAOS A and AVRA) were registered under Cyprus and Greek Flags. With the company by then managing a total of 14 vessels, it began recruiting different nationalities to man the ships, focusing mainly on Greek, Ukrainian, Burmese and Moroccan crews.

www.blueplanetshipping.gr

Capital-Executive Ship Management Corp.

Capital-Executive Ship Management Corp. (‘Capital-Executive’) currently operates a fleet of 40 vessels including 36 container carriers and 4 modern bulk carriers with a total dwt of 2,915,834 tons and total teu of 180,363 approx. The fleet under management includes vessels of Nasdaq-listed Capital Product Partners L.P. The Capital-Executive team has extensive experience in managing various vessel types and sizes. The Company offers comprehensive services in every aspect of ship management including: safety and technical management, claims & insurance, bunkering, risk assessment, newbuilding design and supervision, IT services, accounting, financial management and other administrative functions, as well as in-house human resources management, such as crewing and personnel training with state-of-the-art technology.

www.capital-executive.gr

Capital Gas Ship Management Corp.

Capital Gas Ship Management Corp. (“Capital Gas”) is a ship management service provider, currently operating a fleet of 14 modern LNG Carriers with a total carrying capacity of approximately 2.44 million cubic meters and a total dwt of 1.14 Tons. Our Team consists of highly skilled personnel with extensive experience in the LNG Sector from initial design and newbuilding supervision to LNGCs operations and technical management. Capital Gas Ship Management is a member of SIGTTO and SGMF.

www.capitalgas.gr/

Capital Shipmanagement

Capital Ship Management Corp. (‘Capital’) is a distinguished oceangoing vessel operator, offering comprehensive services in every aspect of ship management, currently operating a fleet of 39 tankers (12 VLCCs, 15 Aframaxes, 11 MR/Handy product tankers and 1 small tanker) with a total dwt of 5.95 million tons approx. Capital has extensive experience in managing various vessel types and sizes including all tanker segments (VLCC, Suezmax, Aframax/LR2, Panamax/LR1, MR/Handy and small tankers), dry bulk segments (Cape, Panamax, Handymax and Handy), as well as OBOs and containers. The excellent performance of Capital Ship Management has been recognized by oil major companies and major traders in the industry. It is one of a few ship management companies to have successfully completed the comprehensive office assessment process of numerous major oil companies and has also established long standing relationships with major traders, liners and operators. The Company offers comprehensive services in every aspect of ship management including: safety and technical management, claims & insurance, bunkering, vetting preparation and attendance, risk assessment, newbuilding design and supervision, IT services, accounting, financial management and other administrative functions, as well as in-house human resources management, such as crewing and personnel training with state-of-the-art technology.

www.capitalship.gr

DNV 

We are the independent expert in assurance and risk management. Driven by our purpose, to safeguard life, property and the environment, we empower our customers and their stakeholders with facts and reliable insights so that critical decisions can be made with confidence. As a trusted voice for many of the world’s most successful organizations, we use our knowledge to advance safety and performance, set industry benchmarks, and inspire and invent solutions to tackle global transformations. We are the world’s leading classification society and a recognized advisor for the maritime industry. We deliver world-renowned testing, certification and technical advisory services to the energy value chain including renewables, oil and gas, and energy management. We are one of the world’s leading certification bodies, helping businesses assure the performance of their organizations, products, people, facilities and supply chains.  We are also a world-leading provider of digital solutions for managing risk and improving safety and asset performance for ships, pipelines, processing plants, offshore structures, electric grids, smart cities and more. Our open industry assurance platform Veracity, cyber security and software solutions support business-critical activities across many industries, including maritime, energy and healthcare.

www.dnv.com

Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Limited (EASTMED)

EASTMED is a ships management company with head offices in Glyfada (Athens), Greece. Presently the company has under management 78 vessels, employs 200 shore based personnel and a further 3000 seagoing staff. The fleet comprises of 29 tankers, 39 dry bulk carriers and 10 container ships, adding up to a total DWT capacity of 7.2 million tons. Principally both the tankers and the dry cargo vessels are employed on the spot market and occasionally will enter into short period charter agreements on a number of ships of the fleet.

The following overseas companies are employed as exclusive agents of EASTMED:

·       Intermar Chartering (UK) Ltd. in London, U.K.: Covers the London chartering market.

·       Eastern Mediterranean Manning Agency in Manila, Philippines: Directly selects, trains, and employs Filipino Masters, Officers, and Crew exclusively for the vessels under EASTMED’s management.

EASTMED was granted by Lloyd’s the ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 certification in December 2010 and is in the process of being certified with ISO 50001 within 2016. EASTMED is presently a member of BIMCO, INTERTANKO and INTERCARGO, thus joining forces for improved standards in the industry. EASTMED voluntarily participates to AMVER reporting system, operated by the US Coast Guard for promoting safety of life and property at sea. Managed vessels are honored with AMVER awards on an annual basis.

www.eastmed.gr

Latsco Marine Management Inc.

Latsco Marine Management Inc. a subsidiary company of Latsco Shipping Ltd., has been established 1st January 2019 and is currently located at Kifisia. Latsco’s history begins over half a century ago as part of Latsis Companies’ Group. Latsco provides operational, technical, financial and ship building services, focusing on fundamental principles of quality, integrity, safety, health, environmental protection and energy efficiency, with established programmes for performance excellence, profitability and growth of management of clean energy transportation vessels. Latsco pursues all entrepreneurial ventures with ethics, integrity, consistency to incident-free operations and ultimate aspiration of providing excellent services through long-lasting customer relationships. Currently, LMM Inc. manages a fleet of 27 vessels (MRs, LR2, VLGCs), while another 2 vessels shall be delivered up to 2020.

www.latsco.com

NAPA

With over 30 years of operation, NAPA is a leading software and data services provider for ship design and operations to enable safer, more sustainable, and future-proof maritime industry. Headquartered in Finland, NAPA employs 200 experts, combining expertise in naval architecture, fleet operations and digital services. NAPA operates globally, with a presence in Japan, Korea, China, Singapore, the USA, Germany, Greece, Romania and India. With over 90% of new vessels built by NAPA customers, NAPA’s ship design software is the global de facto standard in shipbuilding. Furthermore, NAPA is a market leader in ship stability management and safety data services for passenger ships, and its cloud-based solutions for ship performance monitoring and voyage optimization support shipping’s decarbonization journey.

www.napa.fi

RISK4SEA

RISK4SEA is an online platform to provide PSC performance transparency to the market by analysing PSC Data providing KPI, Demographics, Detentions Analytics, reports, Benchmarks and Insights for 23 fleet segments in an advanced analysis of the last 5 years to assist stakeholders to:

-PREPARE for forthcoming PSC inspections
-ANALYSE PSC performance to identify strengths & weaknesses
-BENCHMARK fleets against competition and the industry

www.risk4sea.com

SEAFiT

SEAFiT, powered by SAFETY4SEA, is a pioneering mental health program providing comprehensive guidance and a holistic approach to maritime stakeholders to evaluate the mental health state of both their shore and sea staff and raise awareness over wellbeing issues.

seafit.safety4sea.com

SAFETY4SEA Dubai Forum: Delving into ESG principles for future-proof shipping

The 1st SAFETY4SEA Dubai Forum took place on Wednesday 20th of November 2024 at the Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Dubai, UAE, where the latest maritime trends were put under the microscope by experts and discussed with a view of improving safety operations and sailing towards a sustainable future.

The event was organized by SAFETY4SEA with The American Club, Mintra, and SQEMARINE as lead sponsors.
Other sponsors of the event included: Arcadia Shipmanagement Co. LTD, Blue Planet Shipping Ltd, Capital-Executive Ship Management Corp., Capital Gas Ship Management Corp., Capital Shipmanagement, DNV, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Limited (EASTMED), Latsco Marine Management Inc., NAPA, RISK4SEA, and SEAFiT.

Supporters of the event included the following organizations: International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA), Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) Middle East Branch, Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST), YoungShip Cyprus, The Nautical Institute UAE Branch, and WISTA UAE. Finally, Robban Assafina and Worldoils acted as the event’s media sponsors.

Main issues discussed

• Overview of current maritime safety and security risks
• Global & regional threats and best practices
• Loss prevention practices and Lessons to be learned
• Overview of the regulatory landscape
• Industry’s challenges and future needs
• Driving safety culture
• Impact of digitalization and decarbonization
• Addressing the human factors: New skills & training methods
• Addressing uncertainties in the decarbonization journey
• Emerging technologies & innovation
• How collaboration supports ESG
• Finding the right balance among Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues

Apo Belokas, Managing Editor of SAFETY4SEA, opened the event with a warm welcome to all attendees, extending appreciation to the sponsors and contributors for their invaluable support. He highlighted the pressing challenges facing the maritime sector, particularly the slow pace of adaptation to necessary changes. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, he urged industry leaders to join forces in addressing these challenges, advocating for innovative solutions to better support both seafarers and shore-based personnel. Additionally, he underscored the importance of signing the SAFETY4SEA Petition, which aims to enhance connectivity at sea.

Valentinos Steliou, Innovation Director/ MD Cyprus, Mintra, delivered a keynote speech on how the maritime industry is leveraging technological advancements in competence management and digital learning to prepare for the future. He emphasized the pivotal role of specialized training and upskilling in equipping the workforce with not just technical skills but also a resilient mindset capable of thriving in a rapidly changing environment. Valentinos Steliou underscored that while technology serves as an enabler, the true driving force behind progress is the people—the adaptable, curious, and innovation-oriented workforce ready to harness technology for a forward-looking future.

Session #1: Loss prevention, risk and security management

During the first panel discussion, Capt. Zarir Irani, Business and Event Lead – ICS Middle East; Christopher Kirton Managing Director, International Tanker Management; and Capt. Mohit Batra, Vice Chair, The Nautical Institute Middle East Branch, shared their insight on the latest developments regarding maritime safety, and current risks and challenges that the is facing, especially in these times of geopolitical conflict. Additionally, Harilaos Petrakakos, Senior Consultant in Marine Accident Investigations and Shipbuilding projects, P&P Marine Consultants Inc., delivered a presentation on the critical role of preventive maintenance (PM) in enhancing safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in maritime operations. He discussed how PM minimizes risks, reduces costs, and extends asset lifespans by proactively addressing potential issues before they escalate.

Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA, provided an in-depth overview of Port State Control (PSC) trends and best practices. His presentation covered essential topics such as PSC background checks, research, and intelligence, along with key trends for 2024. He also analyzed MLC CIC trends, identified challenging ports, and shared practical PSC preparation guidelines. Furthermore, Apo Belokas pointed out that an automated Port Call Risk Assessment (POCRA) system can help operators be better prepared for inspections, thus ensuring both higher standards and lower detention rates.

Session #2: Experience transfer from regulatory developments

Octavio Arturo Rangel Palm, Head of Dubai Regional Office – General Directorate of Merchant Marine, Panama Maritime Authority, delved into the principles of Minimum Safe Manning (MSM) and its critical role in ensuring safe and efficient ship operations. He emphasized key factors like safe navigation, mooring, cargo operations, medical care, and emergency duties, highlighting the need for specialized training for various vessel types. The presentation also addressed the importance of adequate crew levels to maintain safety and security, ensuring the master and engine officers are not overburdened.

Capt. Manoj Tyagi, Marine Manager / ADPA / ACSO, TOMINI SHIPPING, discussed ballast water management as a critical measure to prevent the spread of aquatic species through ship ballast tanks. He highlighted the importance of compliance with international standards, which involve either mid-ocean ballast water exchange or treatment using approved systems. Additionally, Capt. Manoj Tyagi also drew attention to the need for regular monitoring and adherence to established procedures to ensure environmental protection.

Panel #3: Human factors

Valentinos Steliou, Innovation Director/ MD Cyprus, Mintra, highlighted the critical role of seafarers in navigating the energy transition and addressing the knowledge gap it creates. By adopting role-based, self-directed, and adaptive learning approaches and utilizing advanced educational technologies, the industry can empower seafarers to meet future challenges confidently. His presentation illustrated that decisions made today on training and development will shape both the success of individual operations and the industry’s future.

Capt. Abhay Nimbalkar, CEO, Greenfield Marine Technologies, emphasized the importance of seafarer engagement in enhancing safety culture. He discussed the role of incentives, such as rewards and recognition, in promoting safe behavior on board. Nimbalkar also highlighted the use of digital tools, like mobile applications, to cater to the new generation of seafarers, and the growing role of AI in analyzing data to improve safety and operational efficiency.

During the panel discussion, Ali A. Shehab, Global Director of Special Projects & Services, Maritime, DNV AS, Dubai Branch, explained that taking the human factor under consideration is a necessity if the industry strives to improve safety operations and sail towards a greener future, as a transition is not possible without the people who drive it.

Session #4: Decarbonization challenges

Philippos Giannakos, Senior Sales Manager, South Europe, Middle East and Africa, NAPA, discussed the role of digital innovation in driving decarbonization in shipping. He highlighted how regulations are pushing ship owners to adapt and adopt flexible, smart technological platforms to maintain competitiveness and compliance. Philippos Giannakos emphasized that accurate ship performance assessment can now be achieved without costly sensors, enabling improved voyage planning and more efficient maintenance scheduling.

Colin Holloway, Regional Chair, The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA), gave a presentation on the increasing complexity and risks in the bunker fuel chain due to the shift towards a multi-fuel future. He highlighted the challenges posed by the need for new ship tonnage, storage infrastructure for multiple fuels, and the implications for safety and training. Furthermore, he drew attention on the growing complexity in ship/shore compliance and the lag in the regulatory framework, particularly regarding safety, insurance, and liability.

During the fourth panel discussion, Stylianos Marantis, Marine Management Systems Manager, Middle East and Africa Marine & Offshore, EMEA, Lloyd’s Register, and Dr. Ibrahim Behairy, Manager of Global Sustainability, ABS, offered their valuable insight on how decarbonization shapes current and future maritime operations. The speakers also pointed out the need for collaboration amongst stakeholders, as the future remains uncertain, but the times are pressing towards a greener future.

Panel #5: ESG in shipping

Konstantina Kottoros, Board Member, WISTA UAE & Managing Director & Senior Legal Counsel, Mercuria Energy Trading Middle East DMCC, addressed key issues related to ocean sustainability. She highlighted the alarming rate of Arctic warming, which is occurring four times faster than the global average, and discussed the growing problem of marine plastics. Additionally, Konstantina Kottoros pointed out the increasing navigability of the Northwest Passage, which was once considered impassable, as climate change continues to alter global maritime routes.

Capt. Anuj Chopra, Managing Director, MaritimESG Middle East Project Management LLC, gave a presentation on the how adopting ESG practices enhances operational resilience, safety, efficiency, and profitability. By reducing environmental impact, improving social responsibility, and strengthening governance, maritime companies can ensure compliance with evolving regulations while optimizing energy use and extending vessel lifespan. According to Capt. Chopra, ESG practices also improve workforce safety and morale, fostering a culture of health and reducing downtime.

Finally, during the last panel discussion, Ali A. Shehab, Global Director of Special Projects & Services, Maritime, DNV AS, Dubai Branch, and Capt. Anwar Farah, VP Sustainability, Bahri, shared their insights on how sustainable practices are transforming maritime operations. They emphasized that adopting ESG principles goes beyond regulatory compliance; it plays a crucial role in reducing emissions and benefiting the environment while also addressing challenges like low retention rates in the maritime industry. By embracing ESG, companies can simultaneously improve their environmental impact and enhance workforce stability, achieving multiple objectives with one integrated approach.

• 3Cube Medicare
• AAAM Management
• ABS
• Abu Dhabi Univerity
• Adnoc Logistics & Services
• Aegis Insurance Brokers & Cyber Risks
• Al Safina Security
• Al Sidra Shipping Management LLC
• Al Wqt Al Thameen
• Anchor Marine Equipment Company LLC
• Aramco
• Aries Marine & Engg. Services
• Astrolabs
• Attalah Legal Consultancy
• Authority Port Of Kribi
• Azura Fleet L.L.C-Fz
• B2You Global
• Bahri Ship Management
• Baltnautic Holding BV
• Bataan Peninsula State University
• Bettersea
• Black Cell FZCO
• B-Team Security
• C Teleport BV
• Cave Man Consulting
• Central Ship Management Ltd (DMCC Branch)
• ClassNK
• Clearlake
• CNR-INM (Italian National Research Council – Institute For Marine Engineering)
• Cohesive
• Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassadors Network
• Constellation Marine Services
• Coretankers FZCO
• Dan Madu Oil & Gas Limited
• Deera Enterprises
• DNV
• DPMSS
• Dubai Port Word DPW
• Dubai Ports Authority
• Dynamic Marine Solutions Pvt Ltd
• Eaglestar  Marine (S) Pte Ltd
• ERMA FIRST
• Esenyel Consultancy LLC
• Eurotech Maritime Training Institute
• Expleo
• Filteam Shipmanagement Inc.,
• Front Way Ship Management & Operation LLC
• GE Vernova
• GMS
• GNAK
• Green And Black Shipbrokers
• Greenfield Marine Technologies
• Hadef & Partners
• HBA Offshore Pte Ltd
• HCT
• Hyproc SC
• ICS Global
• ICS Middle East
• International Registries, Inc.
• International Tanker Management 
• Intl Registries Inc
• Inventonus Tech Pvt Ltd
• Jaldhi Mideast Dmcc
• Ksbel.Design
• LATC Marine Limited
• LGA Global
• Lloyd’s Register
• Lloyd’s Maritime Networks
• LTT Coastal Marine Services
• M & B General Trading LLC
• M/Maritime
• M2Intelligence
• Manah Wellness
• MarineTraffic
• MaritimESG Middle East Project Management Llc
• Martech
• Merchant Fleet
• Mercuria
• Merka
• Mintra
• Mizzen Digital Dmcc
• Monamir S.A
• MRCC
• Mutual Marine Services – Al Mushtaraka Ltd
• Myrcator Marine & Cargo Solutions FZE
• Nafud Shipping Co Ltd
• Namdock Sip Repair Dry Dock Namibia
• NAPA 
• Navig8 India Pvt. Ltd
• Nemiralabyad.com
• New York University Abu Dhabi
• NNC
• Nova Seas Middle East DMCC
• Oasis Group
• Oilmar DMCC
• Opal Intl
• P&O Maritime Logistic
• P&P Marine Consultants Inc.
• P.I.Marine
• Paint-Inspector.com
• Pakistan National Shipping Corporation
• Palfinger Marine Europe BV
• Panama Maritime Authority
• PassPadu
• PMPF
• Polaris Ship Management
• Portmed Shipping Dmcc
• Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation
• Quest Marine Llc
• Radio Lloyd
• Reshamwala Shipbrokers
• Robban Assafina
• Sallaum Lines
• Saubern Gmbh
• SCI
• Seatrade Maritime
• Sharaf Shipping Agency LLC
• Sharjah Maritime Academy
• Ships&People Ltd
• SIBRCO
• Sing Fuels Pte Ltd Dmcc
• SMN Safety Pte Ltd I Smn Trading LLC
• Softimpact Ltd
• Stag Marine
• Steamship Mutual P&I Club
• Steelcorr
• Success Shipping Fze
• Super Quick Ship Repairing Services LLC
• Survitec Group
• Sygnius Marine Services DMCC
• The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA)
• The Mission To Seafarers
• The Nautical Institute Middle East Branch
• Thuraya Telecommunications Company
• Tomini Shipping  
• Triton Maritime FZC
• Tuvalu Maritime Training Institute
• U.N. Cargo & Logistics
• UAFL
• Unimarine Group
• V. Group
• Venture
• Wartsila
• West Bulk International
• Wilhelmsen Ships Services
• Wista Uae
• YSI Corporation
• Zygos Solutions FZCO

Who Should Attend

This is a must attend event for all companies and individuals interested in Maritime Environmental Excellence and Sustainable Shipping , including:

• Ship owners
• Ship Manager Company Staff (Technical, Marine, Operations, Safety & Quality)
• Maritime professionals
• Regulatory & government authorities
• Flag state representatives
• Classification societies representatives
• Marine Insurers & P&I Executives
• Experts on information technologies (IT) onboard
• Other relevant with smart technologies Industry Organizations/ Executives/ Experts

Delegate Helpdesk

General Information

Who can I contact for more information on the event?
Please contact the organizers directly at e-mail: info [at] safety4sea [dot] com

Registration

How do I register?
To register you should fill in the online registration form and follow the instructions contained in the Registration Form.

Is the event free to attend for the delegates?
Attendance to the event is FREE subject to online registration. In case you are interested, please complete the online registration form and confirm with the organizers. FREE attendance includes coffee, snacks and drinks during breaks plus lunch at the event venue. Attendance does NOT include accommodation and/or traveling or parking which should be paid in by the delegates as decided/applicable.

What happens if I am unable to attend despite being registered?
Appreciate if you could inform the organizers by e-mail as soon as possible before the event.

At the event

Where is the event being held and how do I get there?
The event location is at the Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Dubai, UAE. You may find instructions here.

What happens when I get to the event venue?
When you arrive at the event please go to the registration desk and collect your badge which should be worn at all times. Welcome coffee and snacks are available during registration and breaks.

After the event

How may I evaluate and comment on the event?
You may comment with the organizers at any time, during or after the event. Furthermore an event evaluation form will be available online after the event to complete anonymously any comments you may have.

Please contact the organizers directly at e-mail: info [at] safety4sea [dot] com

We look forward to welcoming you at this event!