Raal and Nick discuss New Year reflections, M&A activity and V Group's acquisition of Nord. They delve into the importance of decarbonisation and fuel efficiency, the role of ship managers, and innovations in ship management services. The conversation also touches on behavioral changes for fuel efficiency, the challenges posed by the dark fleet, and the IMO's digitalisation strategy.

Chapters

04:05 M&A Activity in the Shipping Industry

04:56 V Group's Acquisition of Njord

11:03 The Role of Ship Managers in Decarbonisation

15:40 Innovative Solutions for Fuel Efficiency

22:25 The Importance of Data in Shipping

33:00 The Evolving Role of Class Societies and Ship Managers

33:19 Navigating Conflicts in Maritime Technology

40:09 Understanding the Dark Fleet and Sanctions

47:57 Emerging Solutions: Maritime Transparency Index

50:52 IMO's Digitalisation Strategy: A New Era

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Nick and Raal close out the year with the inaugural Shippee Awards, reflecting on the stories, themes, controversies, and personalities that defined maritime in 2025. From decarbonisation debates and regulatory tension to standout entrepreneurship and shifting narratives, they look back on the year that was and ahead to a slightly unsettling 2026.

Chapters

05:50 Ship Owner of the Year

11:53 Technology Entrepreneur of the Year

17:44 Maritime Journalist of the Year

30:09 Mergers & Acquisition Deal of the Year

46:34 Decarbonisation Champion

57:15 Transformation of the Year

01:10:30 Gaffes of the Year: Industry Reflections

01:18:19 Wild Predictions for 2026

Nick and Raal explore recent acquisitions, the unique characteristics of the Greek shipping market, the impact of AI on recruitment processes, and innovations in maritime technology such as tethered drones and remote inspections. They also touch on Ocean Infinity's advancements in robotic fleets, highlighting the evolving landscape of maritime operations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Podcast

01:25 Recent Developments in Maritime E-Learning

07:59 Understanding the Greek Maritime Market

12:42 AI in Recruitment: A Surprising Study

23:23 Innovative Uses of Tethered Drones

28:02 Rethinking Maritime Inspections with Technology

33:24 The Rise of Robotic Ships in Offshore Services

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