6th SAFETY4SEA Limassol Forum
The 6th SAFETY4SEA Limassol Forum was scheduled as a full day event (09:00 – 17:30) on Wednesday 12th of February 2025 at the Columbia Venue Centre of Columbia Plaza, Limassol, Cyprus.
This was a NON PROFIT event expected to attract a target group of approx. 200 delegates / 100 organizations attendance from Safety, Technical, Marine departments of shipping operators and other related industry stakeholders. Attendance will be FREE of charge to delegates, a common feature of ALL SAFETY4SEA forums with sponsors covering all the expenses of the event.
Attendance is FREE, subject to Registration |
SCHEDULE |
08:30- 9:00 Welcome Coffee & Registration 09:00- 9:05 Forum Opening – Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA 09:05- 09:20 Keynote Address – Ioannis Efstratiou,Director Safety and Environmental Protection Directorate – Shipping Deputy Ministry, Republic of Cyprus 09:20- 09:35 Keynote Address – George A. Tsavliris, President, CYMEPA 09:35 – 11:00 Panel #1 Enhancing Maritime Safety and Well-Being
11:00 – 11:30 Networking Coffee Break 11:30 – 11:45 Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA – From Safety Performance to Human Capital ROI 11:45 -13:15 Panel #2 Building the Future Maritime Workforce Moderated by Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA
13:15 – 14:30 Networking Buffet 14:30 -15:30 Panel #3 Navigation and Risk Management Focus Moderated by Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA
15:30 – 16:30 Panel #4 EU Regulations and IMO 2030/2050 Goals
16:30 – 17:30 Farewell Networking Cocktail |
Attendance is FREE, subject to Registration |
Media Kit

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)
Stewart Bankier, Group Director Crewing (Training), Columbia Group
Stewart Bankier, Group Director Training & Career Development at Columbia Group, leads strategic initiatives in learning, development, and operational effectiveness. He oversees leadership training, seafarer career development, and the CSM cadet program, nurturing future maritime professionals. With over 40 years of experience, including senior roles in crewing and fleet personnel development and a 27-year Royal Navy career, Stewart specializes in leadership, operational training, and safety. He is dedicated to advancing professional standards and fostering excellence in the maritime industry.
Marvin Bielek, Press & Media Secretary, YoungShip Cyprus/ Senior Project Manager and Instructional Designer – Mintra
A nautical officer with a passion for navigational safety, Marvin Bielek joined Mintra in 2014 and became an active member of YoungShip Cyprus once relocating to the island in 2017, before being elected to the board of the organisation in 2024. He is constantly looking for new ways to increase training efficiency and knowledge retention. Starting as a licenced ECDIS trainer, he has a strong interest in how modern bridge infrastructure and technology can serve the navigation officers and the overall safety of the vessel. He is also a proud member of the Learning and Performance Institute, the Nautical Institute and a recent MBA in Shipping graduate.
Panagiota Photiou, Acting Head of the Maritime Human Element Centre, CMMI – Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute
Panagiota Photiou is an environmental scientist and the Acting Head of the Maritime Human Element Centre at CMMI. Holding a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and recognized as one of Cyprus’s leading environmental scientists, she is dedicated to addressing complex environmental challenges. Her career includes significant contributions to environmental biotechnology, the circular economy, and sustainability. At CMMI, she develops educational, and training programs and drives advancements in EU-funded research projects, directly supporting the organization’s mission to enhance maritime safety, sustainability, and human performance.
Andreas Chrysostomou, Executive Director, Clean Shipping Alliance
Mr. Chrysostomou is a seasoned professional in the shipping industry. He holds an MBA (Master’s in Business Administration) and he graduated from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, with a Bachelor of Engineering in Naval Architecture and Shipbuilding. Mr Chrysostomou has a long-standing career. He is currently the CSO of Tototheo Global and the Executive Director of the Clean Shipping Alliance (CSA). He previously held the positions of CEO of Marine-Fields Holding Ltd, Director of the Department of Merchant Shipping (the Maritime Authority of Cyprus), CEO of Transmed Shipping Co. Ltd., and Act. Secretary-General of CLIA Europe. In his career Mr. Chrysostomou held senior management roles in fields such as safety and security, protection of the marine environment and administration. He also served as the elected Chairman of the Design and Equipment Subcommittee of the IMO and the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) the later for 11 years. He was twice elected and re-elected Chairman of the International Mobile Satellite Organization and served as a member of the Board of Governors of the World Maritime University (WMU). He also served as President of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMAREST). Mr. Chrysostomou’s skills and integrity have been acknowledged by peers, by awarding him the 2011 Award for Outstanding Contribution to Sustainable Shipping. In November 2011 he has also been presented with the Distinguished Public Service Award by the United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Coast Guard, for his invaluable service to International Shipping and in 2013 the GST Award – Leading Shipping Personality of the Decade 2003 – 2013. Furthermore Mr. Andreas Chrysostomou was awarded The Lloyd’s List Greek Shipping Award – “International Personality of the Year” 2015, he received the YoungShip Cyprus Honorary Award in 2019the and has been awarded the GREEN4SEA Leadership Award 2020.
Sebastian Corby, Principal Consultant, Safetytech Accelerator
Seb is a digital strategist and technology principal, with extensive experience across transport, infrastructure, marine, mining and industrial sectors. He advises corporate clients on integrating novel technologies with a view to optimisation and/or disruption and has developed IoT and data-science solutions from scratch, as well as designed strategic innovation ecosystems with some of the UK’s biggest infrastructure owners and transport providers. Seb now works for Safetytech Accelerator as a Principal Consultant, specialising in driving adoption of safety critical technology through open innovation, most recently designing and delivering the world’s first Industrial Safetytech Regulatory Sandbox with the Health and Safety Executive and leading the global Cargo Fires and Loss Innovation Initiative.
Ioannis Efstratiou, Director Safety and Environmental Protection Directorate, Shipping Deputy Ministry Republic of Cyprus
Ioannis Efstratiou has graduated from National Technical University of Athens in 1991 (Ethniko Metsovio Polytechnio). He joined Cyprus Maritime Administration in May 1993. From April 2016 up to February 2018, he was temporarily appointed as the Acting Director of Department of Merchant Shipping. He was recently promoted to Director of Safety and Environmental Directorate of Shipping Deputy Ministry. He represents Cyprus at both International level (including Marine Environment Protection Committee, IMO) and regional level in numerous technical forums and committees. He is member of the Administrative Board of European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), and of the National Committee on Maritime Training.
Dr. Chara Georgopoulou, Senior Research Engineer II and Head of Maritime DNV R&D and Advisory, Greece
Chara Georgopoulou is Senior Research Engineer II and Head of Maritime DNV R&D and Advisory, Greece. In this position, she works on the mathematical modelling and simulation of marine energy systems and new technologies for greener and smarter maritime transportation. She has several years of experience in model-based analysis of decarbonization technologies, fuel cells and hybrid systems. She has specialized in sustainable transport measures, renewable systems, emission reduction and carbon capture technologies. She has participated in numerous R&D projects in the European industry and has authored more than 30 articles at international journals and conferences. Chara holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering (2009) and a Diploma (Bachelor and M.Sc. equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering (2005) from the National Technical University of Athens, Greece.
Capt. Alexandros Gerokounas, MSQ Manager DPA / CSO, LMZ SHIPPING
Capt. Alexandros’s involvement with the Maritime Industry was 30 years ago, when he first joined directly from the Maritime Academy of Aspropyrgos, Greece, on a Cape size Bulk carrier as a Deck Cadet, until reaching the position of Master Mariner on VLOC vessels (Very Large Ore Carriers) for more than 5 consecutive years. A passionate maritime industry professional, with working experience in managerial positions in Singapore as DIRECTOR and MARINE OPERATIONS MANAGER for PANTHEON MARITIME SERVICES LTD. He is currently based in Cyprus, where he joined the LMZ SHIPPING SA CY, Limassol and proudly participates in the development of the organisation as MARINE, SAFETY & QUALITY MANAGER and VETTING MANAGER,DPA/CSO. For the last 3years, he joined the initiative of Shipping Deputy Ministry to promote the maritime profession and its derivatives to the youth of Cyprus. Taking advantage of his studies in Singapore (PgDip in MARITIME BUSINESS MANAGEMENT) and in Cyprus (MBA in HR Management in collaboration with Cardiff Met Uni in England) he successfully combines effective work conduct and performance with strategic planning, giving emphasis to the human element and skills development. He firmly believes in work ethic practices such as transparency, fairness, adequate effort, commitment, teamwork, motivation, leadership and recognition of achievements as tools to enhance productivity, performance and retention of the workforce.
Marinos Ioannou, Environmental Manager, Dromon Bureau of Shipping
Marinos joined Dromon Bureau of Shipping in July 2024 as Environmental Manager, leading the GHG Emissions Verification Division. He is currently involved with the verification of Maritime GHG Emissions under IMO, EU & UK regulations, as well as verifications under ISO14064-1 & ISO14064-2. Since joining the maritime industry10 years ago, he has been involved extensively on ship safety, the human element, and environmental compliance. Marinos holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cyprus, an MSc in Oil & Gas Engineering from Aberdeen University, and an MBA in Shipping from CIM. He is a member of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology (IMarEST) and serves as the Honorary Treasurer of the IMarEST Cyprus Branch since October 2023.
Capt. Konstantinos G. Karavasilis, Regional Director, Loss Prevention, UK P&I Club
Kostas is a Greek Master Mariner with significant seagoing experience on-board Bulk Carriers and Cruise Ships. Prior to joining Thomas Miller’s Hellas office in December, 2019 he worked as Claims Manager for a local hull insurer, garnering more than 10 years of experience within the marine insurance industry. Kostas is certified by Lloyds Register of Shipping as an ISM and ISPS Internal Auditor. He deals with Loss Prevention related matters and operational enquiries for local Members, and he also conducts crew seminars.
Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director, OneCare Group
Marinos Kokkinis is the Managing Director of OneCare Group, a leading health and wellbeing platform, and OneLearn Global, a leading maritime training provider. Under his leadership, these two entities are forging a holistic approach to everything needed to make individuals healthier and more productive, thereby fostering the potential of human capital. Possessing a deep background spanning the multiple industries that play a role in health, wellbeing, and training, Marinos has held senior positions in the maritime, hospitality, pharmaceutical, and financial industries during the past 25 years. Key positions included Director for Merchant Fleet and Support Services with leading marine services provider Oceanic, senior financial analyst with major pharmaceutical company Pharmascience, and numerous roles throughout the hospitality and cruise ship industries, including the Ritz-Carlton and Celebrity Cruises. Marinos speaks regularly on the topic of human capital and the importance of well-managed health and learning initiatives. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of South Australia, a Bachelor degree in accounting and finance from the University of West London, and he completed an executive programme on the topic of the digital transformation in health care from Harvard Medical School.
Capt. VS Parani, Vice President – Marine, Tufton Asset Management
Captain VS Parani, FNI, FICS, CMarTech-IMarEST is responsible for marine functions at Tufton Asset Management Ltd. He values his experience of thirty years in the shipping industry onboard ships, and then in various corporate roles responsible for the management of large shipping fleets. Besides his Master-Mariner’s license, he also holds Master degrees in law and in business. He also teaches in a graduate programme in shipping management at the CIM-Cyprus Business School. He is the Author of the bestselling book Golden Stripes- Leadership on the High Seas and is the Producer of the GoldenStripes Podcast.
Dimitris Psarros, Business Development Manager, RISK4SEA
Dimitris joined SQE Group back in 2012 and now holds the position of Business Development Manager at RISK4SEA, an innovative SaaS platform which aims to provide Port State Control performance transparency to the market. He has more than 10 years of experience within the industry and held various commercial positions and participated in several projects with the aim to assist shipping companies to improve/maintain their safety and quality standards.
Lennart Ripke, Senior Consultant & Commercial Director, Green Jakobsen
Lennart Ripke is an ex-mariner, and he has several years of experience as a deck officer on chemical tankers. After his seafarer career, he joined the maritime learning and development business, where he was heading the office in Germany for a major e-learning provider. Being responsible for the sales there and now in Green-Jakobsen he possesses a profound knowledge of the concerns and demands that exist among the maritime companies. With a passion for the maritime industry and for learning and development, Lennart is not only taking care of sales in Green-Jakobsen, but he is also a valuable subject matter expert involved in the development of solutions and services for our clients.
Eva Rodriguez, Corporate HR Marine Director at Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) & Member of WISTA Cyprus
Eva Rodriguez Navia is Corporate HR Marine Director at Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement and member of the Management Board. In her role, which she has held since 2018, she is responsible for all aspects of talent strategy, including employee experience, rewards, attraction, retention, training, development and diversity, inclusion and belonging for BSM’s rapidly growing global seagoing workforce of more than 25,000 seafarers. Eva and her team are focused on creating an environment where seagoing employees can thrive and flourish.
George A. Tsavliris, President, CYMEPA
Mr. George A. Tsavliris was born in London. He graduated from Athens College in 1968 and having acquired professional qualifications in Shipping (F.I.C.S., ACI.Arb), he concluded his graduate and post graduate studies in Shipping Law at University College London in 1973, with an L.L.M. degree. In 2009 he was qualified as a Mediator at the ADR Group London and in 2014 was certified as a Mediator by the Greek Ministry of Justice, Transparency and Human Rights. He familiarized himself with the shipping and salvage sectors from a very early age by being engaged in the family business. George is a Principal at “Tsavliris Salvage Group” and represents the business on both a commercial and environmental basis internationally. He holds the position of Vice Chairperson of INTERMEPA (International Marine Environment Protection Association), President of CYMEPA (Cyprus Marine Environmental Protection Association), which received the “Cyprus Maritime Prize 2007”, as well as member of the Board of Directors of Cyprus Union of Shipowners, Board Member of ECSA (European Community Shipowners’ Associations), Board Member of The Yacht Club of Greece, Board Member of Friends of Hellas Liberty Association and the Jubilee Sailing Trust in the UK and Honorary Chairman of the Tsavliris Cultural Foundation. Furthermore, Mr. George Tsavliris is Member of the Academic Board of Metropolitan College / Solent Southampton University. Mr George Tsavliris was awarded the 2016 Capital Link Greek Shipping Leadership Award, in recognition of his unique and extensive contribution to Shipping and Greece and for his overall outstanding service to the shipping industry made by him individually, as a family and by his company as a Group. In Jan 2019, Mr Tsavliris received the Cyprus Environmental Award on behalf of CYMEPA by the President of the Cypriot Republic Mr Nikos Anastasiades and on March 12th, 2019, Mr Tsavliris was recognized with the Safety4Sea Leadership Award 2019 for his work with CYMEPA and other national & international organizations, toward the protection of the marine environment. On July 1st, 2019, Mr Tsavliris was appointed Non-Executive Chairman of OneGlobal Broking, Greece & Cyprus. Mr Tsavliris is a Founding Member and Vice President of The Propeller Club, Port of Limassol, Cyprus. In March 2024, Mr Tsavliris was elected President of Friends of Liberty Group and the floating Museum SS HELLAS LIBERTY. In Dec. 2019, Mr Tsavliris published the book, which he co-wrote with Alba University Professor, Paul Emmanuelides, Winning Shipping Strategies: Theory and Evidence from Leading Shipowners. The book was translated into the Greek language and published in March 2021. George is a frequent keynote speaker and panelist at numerous maritime related conferences. He is an avid supporter of various charities, an art and music enthusiast and has completed ten London marathons. He is a father of six children.
LEAD SPONSORS
MacGregor
MacGregor is a family of innovators. By offering engineering solutions and services for handling marine cargoes and offshore loads we make the sea more accessible, safe and reliable for those whose livelihood depends on the changing conditions of the sea. To enable that we have a variety of strong product brands and committed experts with a passion for solving challenges – and the power of the sea is sure to provide those.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
COLUMBIA GROUP
Together with our partners, at Columbia Group we have developed a comprehensive and integrated maritime, logistics, leisure, energy and off-shore services platform. Clients within these sectors are able to obtain modular, turn-key services of the highest quality and tailored for their specific needs. Harnessing the “can-do” and “project-led” approach of our People, together with state-of-the-art technology and optimisation systems, at Columbia Group we bring you, our partners, considerable added-value, synergies and dynamic energy.
Dorian LPG
Dorian LPG is a pure-play LPG shipping company and a leading owner and operator of modern VLGCs. Dorian LPG currently has four modern VLGCs and one pressurized LPG vessel on the water. Dorian LPG has 18 ECO VLGC newbuildings due for delivery in 2014, 2015 and 2016 from HHI and Daewoo Shipping and Marine Engineering Ltd., including the 13 that it acquired from Scorpio Tankers. Dorian LPG has offices in Connecticut, London, and Piraeus.Dorian LPG is incorporated in the Republic of The Marshall Islands.
Dromon Bureau of Shipping
Established in 2003, Dromon Bureau of Shipping has grown to be among the leading providers of reliable services related to ship classification, statutory certification, and greenhouse gas emissions verifications.
DBS maintains an Integrated Management System, according to the requirements of international standards ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 17020, ISO 14065 and ISO 14064, which are applied in all the processes that can positively affect its services’ quality, its employees’ health/safety and welfare, the environmental aspects, and therefore its clients’ satisfaction, by being beneficial to the community. The efficiency and performance of DBS is based on the skills and competency of its people.
DBS core services provided globally, include:
· Classification of ships and offshores structures;
· Statutory certification, acting as a Recognized Organization on behalf of Flag States;
· Engineering services of drawings, plans & manuals;
· Maritime management systems certification; and
· Environmental services under various schemes.
As a modern classification society DBS combines technical knowledge and digital solutions; and provides clever solutions, beyond class in a competent manner.
The basic principle and commitment of DBS and the philosophy of its people is to provide clients and interested parties’ high level quality services that fulfil their needs and expectations by complying with IMO Conventions, applicable Codes, international and national maritime regulations, as well as International Standards.
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.
Global Maritime Consultants Group GMCG
Established in 1988, Global Maritime Consultants Group GMCG has developed a large global network of experts in Maritime and Oil & Gas Offshore industries covering technical, legal, training and management consultancy sectors. We support and empower clients by helping them overcome operational challenges. Within a period of 37 years, GMCG has positioned itself as a truly global organization with independent offices and agents in more than 100 locations and ports around the world. We work with ship owners, ship operators, ship managers, ship builders, offshore operators, bankers, underwriters, lawyers, agents, and brokers.
Green Jakobsen
Green-Jakobsen A/S is a maritime consultancy offering ship owners, operators, ship management companies and maritime entities a unique combination of skillsets that encompasses all aspects of managing the human factor in shipping. Our approach is to analyse, diagnose and then improve the safety mindset, leadership and human resource performance of people on shore and at sea. Our combined decades of experience with proven, custom-made programs is the foundation of our work. By balancing industry knowhow with out-of-box thinking, we transform strategy into daily work by using tangible tools which we implement alongside our customers on board and in the office. We are a group of people who combine our academic, seafaring and business experience and we are based in Copenhagen, Manila, Athens and Mumbai, with some 30 employees in total.
Our areas of expertise are:
- Maritime safety performance – reducing LTIF, providing strong tools and methods to support the safety initiatives and focus on behaviour and actions
- Maritime leadership – training leaders to fulfil the performance driving role, providing knowledge and tools to act as competent leaders on board and ashore
- HR performance and management – linking the management and development of people and their competencies with leadership skills and safety performance
- Soft skills courses – offering a wide range of subjects for company specific courses and seminars
- Measure and develop safety performance – strengthening a proactive safety culture in an ongoing cycle in a plug-and-play solution including on board training and development
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.
MINTRA
Mintra is a leading provider of human resource management solutions and digital learning to the maritime industry. Our technologies have been developed over 30 years to provide the scope, scale and capabilities required by companies of all sizes, to keep up with the complexities of deploying a skilled global workforce. Mintra’s Trainingportal is a market-leading learning and competency management system which enables efficient upskilling as well as reskilling of staff globally. The solution hosts a comprehensive and growing library of 2,000 eLearning as well as classroom-based courses. Today, 1.5 million people from 3,600 companies use the platform and a course is completed every 30 seconds. Mintra’s complete crew management software solution OCS HR has been developed in partnership with our global customers to meet the unique needs of the maritime industry. The market leading human resource management solution allows HR departments to oversee and manage the work of their global workforce from one central interface and securely store all employee data. With headquarters in Bergen and offices in Oslo, Stavanger, Aberdeen, Limassol and Singapore, Mintra provides services to over 4,000 companies, including four out of the top five largest global energy companies.
OneCare Group
Connecting Seafarers to Health, Wellbeing & eLearning Experts.
OneCare Group is a leading health and wellbeing service provider that offers a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to address the physical, mental, and professional needs of maritime employees and other high-risk sectors. Evolving from OneCare Solutions, the group integrates several specialized services into a holistic framework that focuses on the human factor – improving the health, safety, and performance of the workforce.
OneCare Group offers a 360-degree health and wellbeing solution, with services that span medical support, mental health care, wellness programmes, and professional development that foster a healthy and resilient workforce. Its holistic approach to managing human capital in the maritime industry sets a benchmark for integrating physical, mental, social and personal development into one comprehensive framework.
Members of OneCare Group: Marine Medical Solutions, Mental Health Support Solutions, WellAtSea, and OneLearn Global.
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
Safetytech Accelerator
Safetytech Accelerator, established by Lloyd’s Register, is the leading technology accelerator dedicated to advancing innovation in safety-critical industries, from maritime to construction and beyond. Our mission is to promote a safer, more resilient, and sustainable world by championing tech adoption in these sectors. This mission is realised by empowering organisations to innovate with cutting -edge technologies. We collaborate with a diverse range of partners, including corporates, tech companies, institutions, regulatory bodies, and government agencies. Through our broad portfolio of innovation services, encompassing innovation advisory, solution scouting, piloting, and industry-wide initiatives, we provide a gateway to a global technology ecosystem. Some of our clients manage complex operations and seek solutions to enhance safety, reduce accidents, minimize downtime, and meet regulatory and ethical expectations. Our technology landscape encompasses a variety of solutions, spanning Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Visual Analytics, Augmented and Virtual Reality, Sensors, Wearables, Drones, and Robotics.
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.
Sun Enterprises Ltd
With roots tracing back to 1878, the Group has a long-standing tradition of excellence in shipping. Sun Enterprises Ltd., serves as the tanker management arm of the Group, overseeing a cutting-edge fleet of modern tankers, while Alios Bulkers Ltd., is responsible for managing the Group’s dry cargo fleet. Together, the two companies ensure the seamless operation of a diverse and modern fleet of 16 vessels, complemented by the ownership of two additional vessels chartered on a bareboat basis. The Group’s pioneering spirit in shipbuilding is evident through its impressive history, having successfully placed over 110 new building contracts with top-tier shipyards worldwide since 1948. Each tanker in the Group has been meticulously negotiated, specified, and constructed under the direct supervision of Sun Enterprises, ensuring the highest standards of quality, safety, and operational efficiency. At the heart of the Group’s philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to its values: Safety, Sustainability, Professional Integrity, Proactiveness, Innovation, Diligence, and Teamwork. These principles guide every aspect of the Group’s operations, from fleet management to business development, fostering a culture that prioritizes operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct. A vital part of our success lies in the strength and loyalty of our crew. We take pride in the fact that all our Senior Officers have been nurtured within the company, having joined as cadets and risen through the ranks. As a forward-thinking organization, the Group remains dedicated to adopting the latest technologies and industry best practices, ensuring compliance with evolving global regulations while maintaining a focus on delivering value to clients and stakeholders. With a rich heritage and an innovative mindset, the Group continues to build on its legacy, setting new benchmarks in the maritime industry.
V. Group
V.Group provides a full range of ship management and marine support services to ship owners and operators around the globe, as well as the ability to blend those services together in unique combinations to meet specific customer needs. Guided by our values, we aim to deliver excellence in every area in which we operate, with safety being our number one priority. To help us achieve that, our group of companies and brands work interdependently, operating across different sectors, allowing us to become a comprehensive supplier of maritime and offshore services around the world. With over 35 years’ experience in managing vessels in the shipping, cruise, energy, and defence sectors, we’re committed to delivering safe and compliant operations. Helping customers with specific needs and putting them at the heart of our business. We’re also dedicated to working towards a maritime industry free of corruption, as an active member of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN). V.Group has access to an international network of over 44,000 seafarers, covering all areas of ship management and crewing. With those colleagues all supported by an onshore team of over 3,000 across 30 countries, we’re dedicated to investing in our people, our technology, and our systems, to ensure we deliver the highest quality service to our customers.
UK P&I Club
The UK P&I Club is one of the oldest P&I clubs in the world. It provides Protection and Indemnity insurance in respect of third party liabilities and expenses arising from owning ships or operating ships as principals. One of the largest mutual marine protection and indemnity organisations it insures over 200 million tonnes of owned and chartered ships from more than fifty countries across the globe.
2025 SAFETY4SEA Limassol Forum: Embracing adaptability on the road to transformation
The 6th SAFETY4SEA Limassol Forum was a full day event that took place on Wednesday 12th of February 2025 at the Columbia Venue Centre of Columbia Plaza, Limassol, Cyprus, where experts came together to discuss and explore the latest developments shaping the future of the maritime industry.
The event was organized by SAFETY4SEA, with MacGregor and SQE Marine as lead sponsors. Additional sponsors included: Arcadia Shipmanagement Co. LTD, Blue Planet Shipping Ltd, Capital-Executive Ship Management Corp, Capital Gas Ship Management Corp, Capital Shipmanagement, Columbia Group, Dorian LPG, Dromon Bureau of Shipping, Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Limited (EASTMED), Global Maritime Consultants Group (GMCG), Green-Jakobsen A/S, Latsco Marine Management Inc., Mintra, OneCare Group, RISK4SEA, Safetytech Accelerator, SEAFiT, Sun Enterprises Ltd, V.Group, UK P&I Club.
Supporters of the event included: Clean Shipping Alliance (CSA), Cyprus Marine Club, The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICSC) Cyprus Branch, CYMEPA, Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC), The Nautical Institute Cyprus Branch, YoungShip Cyprus, Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI), Cyprus Union of Shipowners (CUS), and WISTA Cyprus.
Main issues discussed
- Building a strong safety culture onboard
- Why psychological safety is vital
- Important priorities on the crew welfare agenda
- HR retention and performance strategies
- Focus on human/ soft skills development
- Key trends and challenges for the future workforce onboard/ ashore
- Lessons learned and best practices
- Key Factors contributing to effective risk management
- Balancing innovation and safety
- Maritime decarbonization: Current challenges and opportunities
- Carbon-neutral fuels: Feasibility and challenges
- Emissions regulatory framework
Opening the event, Apo Belokas, Managing Editor of SAFETY4SEA, welcomed delegates and speakers while expressing gratitude to the event’s sponsors and supporters. He underscored the growing challenges facing the maritime industry, from regulatory compliance and the energy transition to crew welfare and the importance of taking human factors into account. Stressing the need for collaboration, Apo Belokas highlighted the importance of proactive solutions to navigate these evolving demands, ensuring a safer, more sustainable future for shipping.
Ioannis Efstratiou, Director Safety and Environmental Protection Directorate – Shipping Deputy Ministry, Republic of Cyprus, delivered a keynote address on environmental and safety regulations affecting the shipping industry. He discussed the “Fit for 55” environmental package and ongoing International Maritime Organization (IMO) procedures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Furthermore, he also addressed the newly adopted safety package, which includes amendments to Port and Flag State Control Directives. Additionally, he explored the implications of the proposal by EU Member States and non-European countries for a global market-based measure, such as a levy system, to significantly cut GHG emissions.
George A. Tsavliris, President of CYMEPA, delivered a keynote address that provided a detailed exploration of the current landscape of the maritime industry. In his speech, Tsavliris discussed key challenges, developments, and trends shaping the maritime sector today, including environmental issues, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. As the head of an organization focused on marine environmental protection, his insights emphasized the industry’s growing focus on sustainability, eco-friendly practices, and compliance with international environmental standards.
Session 1: Enhancing maritime safety and well-being
Lennart Ripke, Senior Consultant & Commercial Director, Green Jakobsen, focused his presentation on enhancing human performance in the maritime industry. He outlined a four-step approach, beginning with recognizing the need for improvement, followed by identifying and evaluating Performance Influencing Factors (PIFs). Ripke emphasized the importance of measuring these factors effectively and setting clear human performance objectives. His insights highlighted the role of structured assessment and goal-setting in fostering a safer, more efficient working environment.
Capt. Konstantinos G. Karavasilis, Regional Director, Loss Prevention, UK P&I Club, emphasized the importance of a multi-faceted approach to improving maritime safety and well-being. His presentation focused on integrating a strong safety culture, promoting psychological safety, and implementing crew welfare initiatives. Ultimately, Capt. Karavasilis called for collective commitment to creating a safer, healthier, and more resilient maritime environment, encouraging collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement to achieve these goals.
Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director, OneCare Group, delivered a presentation on the evolving landscape of seafarer health, crew welfare, and resilience. He highlighted innovative approaches and strategic initiatives that are shaping the future of crew care. The presentation covered the use of AI-driven health assessments, as well as providing comprehensive mental health support and digital wellness solutions. Marinos Kokkinis emphasized how these proactive measures are transforming crew wellbeing, ensuring seafarers receive the support and resources they need to maintain their health.
During the first panel discussion, Marvin Bielek, Press & Media Secretary, YoungShip, emphasized the critical importance of crew welfare, stressing that it goes beyond mere regulatory compliance. He explained that prioritizing the well-being of seafarers is essential not only for their safety and well-being but also for ensuring the overall safety of the ship and its operations. By placing crew members at the forefront, the industry can foster a safer and more effective working environment.
Following the first panel discussion, Apo Belokas, Managing Editor, SAFETY4SEA, gave a presentation on the importance of rethinking the industry’s approach to human capital, emphasizing a shift from a fixed to a growth mindset—moving from traditional Safety 1.0 to a more progressive Safety 2.0. He highlighted that outdated thinking is holding the industry back, and the ability to learn by doing has been key to its survival. Belokas underscored the relevance of Human Capital Return on Investment (HCROI), urging industry leaders to revisit and rethink this crucial metric. Looking ahead, he stressed that seafarers should be viewed as a valuable resource rather than a cost center, especially as attracting and retaining high-quality talent becomes increasingly challenging.
Session 2: Building the future maritime workforce
Capt. Alexandros Gerokounas, MSQ Manager, DPA / CSO, LMZ SHIPPING, delivered a presentation on Human Resource Management (HRM) strategies in shipping, emphasizing their vital role in workforce retention and performance for both shipboard and shore-based employees. He analyzed the most effective HRM practices that international shipping companies can adopt to enhance employee motivation, leadership, and productivity. The presentation explored how strategic HRM implementation contributes to organizational growth and sustainability while addressing challenges related to workforce retention in the maritime industry.
Panagiota Photiou, Acting Head of Maritime Human Element Centre, CMMI, noted that many young people perceive the blue economy as limited to fishing and shipbuilding, making early education on ocean literacy essential. Photiou emphasized the importance of equipping teachers and educators with the necessary tools to guide students toward existing and emerging blue career opportunities. She also introduced the NextBlueGeneration project, which aims to raise awareness among youth about maritime professions while helping bridge the gap between workforce supply and demand.
During the second panel discussion, Eva Rodriguez, Corporate HR Marine Director, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), emphasized the importance of attracting, developing, and retaining talent in the maritime industry, especially in an area of transformation such as the current one. Meanwhile, Stewart Bankier, Group Director Crewing (Training), Columbia Group, highlighted the need for modern training approaches to equip seafarers for evolving industry demands. Additionally, they both stressed the importance collaboration and continuous learning to build a strong future workforce.
Session 3: Navigation and risk management focus
Sebastian Corby, Principal Consultant, Safetytech Accelerator, discussed how emerging technologies can enhance maritime safety, particularly in risk and fire prevention at sea. He shared key lessons from deploying technology in safety-critical industries and emphasized the role of collaboration in reducing risk and accelerating solutions. Corby highlighted the latest advancements in AI and industrial IoT, demonstrating how these innovations are transforming risk management. His presentation underscored the need for proactive adoption of technology to enhance safety and resilience in the maritime sector.
Capt. VS Parani, Vice President – Marine, Tufton Asset Management, emphasized the need for improving passage planning through better visualization and shared understanding. He highlighted the shift from traditional MPX to HMP, which enhances spatial awareness, incorporates maneuvering characteristics, and facilitates monitoring and interventions. He pointed to best practices industry recommendations, underlining that a well-prepared passage plan is essential for safer and more efficient navigation.
Dimitris Psarros, Business Development Manager, RISK4SEA, discussed the challenges relating to Port State Control (PSC) and vessel detentions, emphasizing that detained ships are not inherently problematic, but often lack preparation. As a result, he proposed improving the availability of PSC intelligence data, such as port KPIs and deficiency codes, and stressed the importance of assessing 100% of ship calls to better identify and address port-related risks.
Session 4: EU regulations and IMO 2030/2050 goals
Marinos Ioannou, Environmental Manager, Dromon Bureau of Shipping, addressed the latest developments in EU regulations for maritime greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the challenges of their implementation. He discussed the current status of regulations, upcoming changes, and the difficulties faced in their enforcement. He also touched on the crucial role of Administering Authorities and highlighted the impact of the Fuel EU initiative in promoting sustainable maritime operations.
Chara Georgopoulou, Head of Maritime R&D and Advisory Greece, DNV Cyprus Ltd, discussed the challenges and opportunities in decarbonizing the maritime industry, focusing on alternative fuels and technologies. She outlined key industry trends for 2025, presenting DNV’s estimates for the future of shipping. Finally, Georgopoulou highlighted two key areas of focus: advancements in energy management and the integration of new technologies, both of which offer promising solutions for improving efficiency and supporting decarbonization.
Andreas Chrysostomou, Executive Director, Clean Shipping Alliance, explained during the last panel discussion that complying with environmental regulations ultimately depends on the industry’s readiness to adapt and evolve. He emphasized that successful implementation will require operators to collaborate and share insights as they work together toward a common path forward.
- 3Seas Shipping
- Acheon Akti Navigation Pvt Ltd.
- Alex Bankier & Co
- Alfa Laval
- Ali Haider Workshop
- Alpha Bank
- Alpha Sipmanagement Corp.
- Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM)
- B-Team Security
- C Teleport
- Canfornav Limited
- Cass Technava
- Clean Shipping Alliance
- CMMI – Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute
- Columbia Group
- CYMEPA
- Diana Shipping Services S.A.
- DNV Cyprus Ltd
- Donnelly Tanker Management Ltd
- Dromon Bureau Of Shipping
- Ducat Maritime
- Eunavfor Atalanta
- FILT CGIL
- Filteam Shipmanagement Inc.
- Fleet Management Cyprus
- FMC International Ltd
- FML Ship Management Ltd.
- Frederick University, Cyprus
- Garware Technical Fibres Limited
- Geevo
- Giovanti Travel
- GMCG
- Green Jakobsen
- Harbour Master
- Hoegh Fleets Services Philippines
- Idsure.io
- Iintemartitime Shipmanagement
- IMAR Trading & Contracting
- Inglasco International Ltd
- Intergaz Chartering Ltd
- Intermaritime Shipmanagement
- International Registries, Inc.
- ITIC Europe
- Japan P&I Club
- John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University
- Kare Health Brunei
- Lemissoler Shipmanagement, Ltd
- LGA Group
- LISCR (Cyprus) Ltd
- LMZ Shipping
- Marin Shipmanagement Ltd.
- Marine Accident And Incident Investigation Committee (MAIC)
- Marine Institute
- Marine Media Enterprises
- Maritime & Healthcare Group
- Marlow Navigation Co. Ltd.
- Mastermind Shipmanagement Ltd.
- Matrix Ship Management Ltd
- MCTC
- Michael Kyprianou & Co Llc
- Ministry Of Fisheries
- Mintra
- MLV Marine Ltd
- MNCY
- MPCF-Legazpi City
- MSEA Management Limited
- Navarone SA
- Naviera Transoceanica S.A.
- NSB Group
- Ocean Advice Ltd
- Oceanic
- Oesterreichischer Lloyd Seereederei (Cyprus) Ltd.
- Onecare Group
- Oneglobal Broking
- Onelearn Global
- Onenet Group
- Osean 360
- OSM Thome
- OTG LR
- P&O Maritime Cyprus
- Petronav Ship Management Ltd
- PMI Colleges- Quezon City
- Polsteam Shipping Company Limited
- RINA Classification And Certification Cyprus Ltd
- Rodou Charalambous & Son Ltd
- Safe Lanes
- Safetytech Accelerator
- Scandi Trading Ltd
- SCG/Chesva Enterprises Ltd
- Sharavships Ltd
- Shipping Deputy Ministry Republic Of Cyprus
- Sierra Leone Life Saving Society
- Starbulk Shipmanagement Company Limited
- Sudan Maritime Administration
- SYFT Marine Consultancy
- Tatiana First Co. Ltd
- Tufton Asset Management
- UK Defence Club (Thomas Miller)
- uk P&I Club
- Uniclean Chemical & Gases Ltd
- Uniteam Marine
- University Of Limassol
- Vestra Marine FZCO
- WISTA Cyprus
- XMAR
- Youngship Cyprus
- Youth Empowerment For Peace And Security
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 Columbia Venue Centre, Columbia Plaza, Limassol Cyprus. 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!
Supporters