Seaspan Marine has agreed to sell its chip and hog fuel barge division, along with related forestry transportation assets, to Hodder Tugboat Co. The transaction includes vessels, workforce and maintenance facilities, ensuring continuity for existing customers. The move allows Seaspan to focus on core services such as ship assist and vessel escort operations. Hodder, a Richmond-based towing company, will expand its forestry logistics capabilities through the acquisition. The deal reflects a strategic realignment of operations within B.C.’s marine sector.

Vancouver Park Board has approved plans for a passenger-only electric ferry service connecting Coal Harbour to Bowen Island and Gibsons. The proposal, led by CIRQL Ferries, aims to provide a faster and more sustainable alternative to existing routes from Horseshoe Bay. The service could launch by 2028, with vessels carrying up to 150 passengers. Officials highlighted benefits including improved connectivity, reduced emissions and support for tourism. Final agreements and infrastructure planning will now move forward.

European energy companies, including Germany’s Uniper, are exploring LNG imports from Canada’s west coast as part of efforts to diversify supply amid geopolitical tensions. Talks are focused on the Ksi Lisims LNG project, with a final investment decision expected later this year. Despite longer routes via the Panama Canal and higher costs, buyers are showing increased interest due to the Middle East conflict. The project could strengthen Canada’s role in global LNG markets, though production remains several years away. The shift reflects Europe’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources.

Rio Tinto has commissioned a new 1.1-kilometre alumina conveyor at its BC Works facility in Kitimat as part of a C$135 million upgrade. The system will transport up to 800,000 tonnes annually, improving reliability and replacing ageing infrastructure. Designed for a 50-year lifespan, it also enhances environmental performance with a sealed system that reduces emissions by 40%. The project supports more efficient operations and material recovery. It reflects Rio Tinto’s continued investment in its long-term aluminium operations in British Columbia.

A new study led by the University of Manitoba is assessing the feasibility of turning the Port of Churchill into a year-round shipping hub. The research focuses on using icebreakers to extend the current four-month operating season and improve access to global markets. Backed by federal and provincial funding, the study will analyze sea ice conditions, climate trends and environmental impacts. The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen northern trade corridors and economic development. A final report is expected by early 2027.

The BC government has introduced legislation to ratify a treaty with the Kitselas First Nation, granting land ownership and self-governance rights. The agreement, negotiated over more than three decades, covers about 382 square kilometres in northwestern BC and includes provisions for justice administration. While the Kitselas community has approved the treaty, neighbouring First Nations have raised concerns and called for a pause. If finalized, it would be one of the first modern treaties implemented in the province in over a decade.

The Canadian Coast Guard has strengthened ties with Norway by signing an updated cooperation agreement during the Arctic Coast Guard Forum in Copenhagen. The agreement expands collaboration between training institutions, including exchanges of personnel, courses and curriculum development. Officials highlighted the importance of international partnerships in enhancing maritime security and Arctic operations. The move reflects Canada’s broader efforts to increase defence investment and strengthen its presence in the region.

Four BC-based companies have been selected to develop clean energy solutions for remote Canadian Coast Guard operations through an Innovation Challenge led by Innovate BC. The initiative focuses on reducing diesel use by advancing renewable, hydrogen and wave energy technologies, along with modular power systems. Each company will receive funding and access to testing facilities and technical support. The projects aim to deliver scalable, deployable solutions for remote coastal sites. Successful outcomes could inform future federal procurement and decarbonization efforts.

US President Donald Trump has issued several pipeline permits to support the transport of crude oil and petroleum products between the US and Canada. The approvals include a new construction permit for the Bakken Pipeline in North Dakota, along with permits to operate and maintain existing pipelines. Enbridge Energy also received approvals for facilities in Michigan and North Dakota. The move aims to strengthen cross-border energy infrastructure and improve supply flows.

The Federal Maritime Commission has launched an investigation into whether ocean carriers are discriminating against US exporters of hazardous and radioactive materials. The probe will examine carrier policies on accepting such cargo and any exclusive arrangements that may restrict access. The FMC will gather information from major carriers, ports, terminals and forwarders. The move follows growing concerns from exporters despite rising volumes of hazardous shipments. The investigation aims to determine if current practices are fair and compliant with regulations.

The US Coast Guard will base its first two Arctic Security Cutters in Alaska as part of efforts to expand its presence in the Arctic. The vessels, expected by 2028, will support missions including security, search and rescue, and resource protection. The move reflects growing geopolitical competition in the region and the need for year-round operational capability. The cutters are part of a larger fleet renewal program involving international shipbuilding partnerships. Planning is underway to develop the required infrastructure and support systems in Alaska.

Crowley has celebrated one year of operations of the American Energy, the first US-flagged LNG carrier serving Puerto Rico. Since March 2025, the vessel has delivered over 2 million cubic meters of LNG, supporting power for roughly 1.2 million homes while reducing emissions compared to diesel. The service has strengthened the island’s energy reliability and supported US maritime jobs. The milestone highlights growing efforts to enhance Puerto Rico’s energy security through a consistent LNG supply.

Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz is open to commercial shipping under the current ceasefire, but the arrangement remains conditional and unclear. Vessels may be required to follow an Iran-designated transit route, potentially involving coordination with authorities, while U.S. enforcement measures, including inspections and a continued blockade targeting Iran-linked trade, remain in effect. Ongoing risks such as possible sea mines, compliance concerns, and insurance uncertainty mean that, although traffic may resume, operating conditions in the strait are still far from normal.

Concerns over a global food crisis linked to the Iran conflict are being tempered by analysts who point to strong existing crop supplies. While disruptions to fuel and fertilizer flows could raise input costs and impact future production, current global stocks remain sufficient. Experts warn that higher prices and reduced fertilizer use may pressure yields later in the year. Lower-income countries are expected to be most affected by rising costs. Overall, while risks are present, a full-scale food crisis is not seen as imminent.

China has approved a revised Maritime Law set to take effect on May 1, 2026, aimed at aligning with evolving global shipping practices. The updated law clarifies rights and obligations across maritime activities and introduces provisions for electronic transport records to support digitalization. It also strengthens environmental protections through a new chapter on ship oil pollution liability. Additional updates address foreign-related legal applications and promote international maritime cooperation. The reforms are intended to support the modernization and global competitiveness of China’s shipping sector.

Turkey’s 2026 durum crop is expected to increase despite lower planting, supported by improved weather and higher yields. Production could rise by six to eight per cent, potentially allowing the country to return as a net exporter. Strong rainfall and favourable conditions across the Mediterranean are also boosting output in regions like North Africa. However, Turkish export competitiveness remains limited due to higher prices. Global supply trends suggest reduced import demand in key markets despite overall production gains.

Container shipping could face global bunker fuel shortages within months if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz persist. Supply imbalances are already emerging, particularly in Asia, with tighter availability of low-sulfur fuels. Ships equipped with scrubbers may gain flexibility by using more widely available high-sulfur fuel. Carriers are adjusting fueling strategies, including sourcing fuel from Europe, to manage constraints. Prolonged disruption could lead to reduced capacity, higher costs and less predictable shipping schedules.

Pacific Basin has adjusted and expanded its newbuilding programme, replacing four planned dual-fuel Ultramax vessels with conventionally fuelled ships while retaining an option for future dual-fuel orders. The move reflects uncertainty around global green fuel regulations and aims to reduce near-term capital costs. The company also increased its Handysize orders from four to six vessels, strengthening fleet renewal plans. Deliveries are scheduled between 2028 and 2031, focusing on fuel-efficient designs. The strategy maintains flexibility while positioning the company for future decarbonization requirements.

The first grain vessel has arrived at Parrish & Heimbecker’s new Picton Terminal in Ontario, marking the resumption of agricultural shipments by ship from the region after nearly 75 years. The vessel Ontario Venture loaded wheat and soybeans for transport to Quebec City. The new Lake Ontario facility is expected to improve efficiency for eastern Ontario farmers and strengthen export capacity. Designed for high throughput, the terminal enhances P&H’s marine logistics network. The milestone signals a significant step forward for regional agriculture and trade.