Published Articles

Shiphandlers Beware 

(Maritime Reporter & Engineering News, March 2017)

This opinion article examines the relationship between low-sulphur fuel requirements and vessel handling characteristics. 

Using operational experience, accident investigations and propulsion incident data, the authors discuss how fuel properties and machinery responses may influence manoeuvrability during critical navigation situations. 

The article highlights the importance of understanding fuel-system performance, machinery limitations and pilotage considerations when operating under stricter emissions regulations. 

Recommendations are directed toward regulators, operators and maritime professionals seeking to improve safety while maintaining environmental compliance. 

Key Takeaways

• Propulsion reliability and manoeuvrability remain critical safety considerations.
• Fuel characteristics can affect engine behaviour and shiphandling performance. 
• The authors call for greater industry focus on operational risk assessment. 
• Safety, emissions compliance and vessel performance must be considered together.

Fuel Management & Safety

(Maritime Professional, Q3 2014)

As Emission Control Area (ECA) regulations tightened, ship operators faced a new challenge: balancing emissions compliance with operational reliability. 

This article examines how the mandatory switch from heavy fuel oil (HFO) to low-sulphur distillate fuels can increase the risk of Loss of Propulsion (LOP) incidents if fuel systems, machinery and operating procedures are not properly prepared. 

The authors highlight lessons learned from California's early experience with fuel switching and discuss the technical challenges associated with distillate fuels, including fuel-system compatibility, lubrication characteristics and operational safety considerations. The article also compares alternative compliance pathways such as scrubbers and operational measures such as slow steaming

Key Takeaways

• ECA regulations introduced new operational and technical challenges for ship operators. 
• Fuel switching may contribute to increased propulsion-related incidents if not carefully managed. 
• Scrubbers, low-sulphur fuels and operational measures each carry advantages and drawbacks.
• Crew awareness, fuel management and engine preparation remain critical for safe operation.

ECAs – Is There Another Option? 

(The Nautical Institute Seaways, July 2014)

This feature explores the wider operational implications of Emission Control Areas (ECAs) and the move toward lower-sulphur fuels. 

Drawing on operational experience and industry data, the article discusses the potential relationship between fuel switching and propulsion failures, the challenges posed by weather and route planning, and the practical implications of scrubber technology. 

The authors also discuss alternative approaches, including slow steaming strategies that may reduce fuel consumption and emissions while maintaining operational safety. 

The article encourages a broader discussion about achieving environmental objectives without compromising vessel reliability.

Key Takeaways

• ECA regulations significantly affect vessel operations and fuel strategies. 
• Fuel switching introduces both technical and safety considerations. 
• Scrubber systems provide an alternative compliance route, but with additional operational requirements. 
• Slow steaming is presented as a potential method for reducing both fuel consumption and emissions.

80% fewer emissions

(The Hansa News, January 2025)

The project demonstrates how advanced EGR technology can significantly reduce NOx emissions while extending the operational life of existing vessels. [hansa.news]

Operating extensively in environmentally sensitive regions such as the Norwegian fjords, Artania became the world's first cruise vessel equipped with an IMO Tier III-compliant EGR solution. 

The project highlights EGR as an effective emissions-reduction technology that addresses NOx formation directly within the combustion process. The vessel subsequently received updated certification from Lloyd's Register confirming compliance with applicable emission requirements.

Key Takeaways

• EGR technology enabled approximately 80% NOx emission reduction compared with earlier IMO emission standards. 
• The system is reported to reduce annual NOx emissions by approximately 500 tonnes per year. 
• Artania became the first cruise vessel equipped with an IMO Tier III-compliant EGR system. 
• The project demonstrates how existing vessels can achieve modern emissions compliance through retrofit solutions. 
• Compliance was verified through updated certification issued by Lloyd's Register.