The “23rd NAVIGATOR 2024 – THE SHIPPING DECISION MAKERS FORUM” was successfully organizedby NAVIGATOR SHIPPING CONSULTANTS from September 20 to 22, 2024, on the islands of Chios and Oinousses, from which Greek shipowners manage nearly 10% of the world’s commercial fleet. Theparticipation of 200 distinguished executives and representatives from shipping companies, organizations, and media, as well as representatives from the Greek Coast Guard, from severalEmbassies, Academics and students, in presence of local authorities, was truly moving. The eventprogram combined the visits of Oinousses and Chios main attractive characteristics and a full dayconference allowing the participants to discuss some of the most pressing shipping issues and toget to know each other better in a unique friendly atmosphere.
The CEO of Navigator, Danae Bezantakou, opened the Forum, emphasizing that the NAVIGATORFORUM has been a dynamic initiative for the exchange of ideas and best practices for 23 consecutive years. «We are addressing key issues such as decarbonization, technological innovations, and cybersecurity, which will shape the future of the industry. In such context, we aspire to outline new paths that will strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of shipping on aglobal scale. This is why the collaboration of all stakeholders is key to meeting the challenges of the new era». She also emphasized the critical issue of low birth rates and demographics in Greece in particular, stating that if we do not take specific measures to ensure there will be a generation toimplement everything we are discussing today, the last Greek will be born in 2114.
The conference was greeted by Captain Dimitris Bezantakos, Founder of NAVIGATOR SHIPPINGCONSULTANTS, followed by the Introductory remarks from Christos Stylianidis, Minister of Shippingand Island Policy. Then the Head of the Department of Shipping Trade and Transport at the Universityof the Aegean, Professor Serafim Kapros, Capt. Antonis Pitsilos, President of Chios Marine Club, and Dr. Georgios Pateras, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, highlighted the need forinitiatives like the NAVIGATOR FORUM is providing for many years, the results of which contribute to impact the policy making in shipping. Among other topics that immediately attracted theaudience’s interest, it was mentioned that the shipping industry has not yet embraced artificial intelligence since we are currently using machine learning, emphasizing that in recent years wehave been testing models that ultimately fail, leading to additional costs, instead of using artificial intelligence to provide optimal solutions beforehand.
The presentation of Mr. Ji Yongbo, Director of the Division of Strategy and Development of the ChinaWaterborne Transport Research Institute, was also notable regarding the challenges and solutions for the development and adoption of new and renewable energy sources, as well as the specifications that ships should follow.
The first panel on Decarbonization and ESG featured a dense and multi-layered discussion,reflecting the various ways in which both issues can be approached. Representatives from fuel suppliers, technology providers, legal experts, and ESG auditors analyzed common misconceptions,as well as various commercial and technological solutions in global efforts for decarbonization andfor the increasing importance of ESG reporting.
There was a consensus to recognize that while significant challenges remain within regulatory andlegislative fields as well as in finding and selecting technological solutions, global shipping is understrong and intense pressure for compliance. This pressure is often perceived as disproportionatecompared to the real shipping industry’s environmental impact, probably due to disconnected anduncoordinated policies, rules, and regulations.
Regarding fuels and alternative options under consideration, such as ammonia and the associatedrisks, the continuation of biofuels and gradual improvement of technologies were suggested. It was also noted that before any universal selection, infrastructures must be forecasted to meet the needs of ships globally.
In relation to ESG and the approaches of publicly listed and private shipping companiesconcerning sustainability reports, the importance of data transparency and reliability was emphasized, as well as the need to focus on the social aspect (Social). Although companies have so far concentrated on the environmental aspect (Environment), there is also a call for thesubstantial utilization of the reports rather than just their “formal” completion, as banks argue thatthe governance aspect (Governance) has been adequately covered.
It was highlighted that while the shipping industry has the capacity to self-regulate, it is essential to adopt a more coordinated and collaborative approach—particularly for the Greek shipping sector,which holds an indisputable global leadership position. It was noted that pressure on the IMO, theEU, and other global organizations through active advocacy and lobbying could be a catalyst forpositive changes.
A detailed discussion in the third panel was also held regarding Smart Shipping. Considering the increasing constraints from regulations for environmental protection and decarbonization,technology emerges as a critical factor in adapting shipping’s activities. Although alternative fuels contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, they have not yet eliminated the problem, as the reduction is limited to about 20%. However, smart shipping technologies can achieve similar CO2reduction rates by optimizing ship operations and fuel consumption. Additionally, the integration ofartificial intelligence and machine learning, combined with the advanced computing capabilitiesof quantum computing, opens new horizons for further fuel savings and emissions reductions. Untila specific alternative fuel prevails, smart shipping represents an excellent solution that not onlyreduces the environmental footprint but also significantly enhances ship performance, makingshipping more efficient and sustainable.
During the panel on human factor in shipping, the challenges and opportunities related tocontinuous education and skill development for both seafarers and office staff were discussed. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of training, as majority of participants agreedthat it has an equally significant impact on both onboard and ashore workers, despite the fact that training for onboard personnel is clearly more systematic. Technological developments such asdigitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and data collection systems require continuoustraining and upgrading of skills both on ships and in offices.
Modern training tools such as simulators, virtual reality (VR), and distance learning offer newpossibilities; however, 2/3 of participants stated that they prefer traditional training methods (in-class).Despite technological advancements, people in shipping continue to value personal interactionsand real-time training. In this context, there was a vigorous discussion on the balance between hardand soft skills, emphasizing skills such as leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, and resilience.
Digital technology and the constantly changing demands in shipping are placing pressure onseafarers, who are required to quickly adapt to remain competitive. This creates additional stresses;however, the use of psychometric tests, practices to support mental health, and the adoption ofwell-being policies can create a safe framework for seafarers. Most of participants indicated thatthey already have mental health support programs, suggesting a positive shift in the industry toward staff care.
The discussion also highlighted the need to adapt training to new ship systems, such as ammoniaand LNG carriers, which require new knowledge and skills. Maritime academies must keep pacewith technological developments, while experience remains an important factor for the effective training of crews, with simulators playing a crucial role.
Finally, it was emphasized that shipping must offer clear opportunities for professional developmentto attract and retain talent. Training should enhance not only technical knowledge but also socialskills, helping seafarers respond to the challenges of a dynamic and demanding industry.
Today, shipping faces significant challenges in an unstable geopolitical environment, with regionalconflicts, intensified competition among major powers, and structural changes in supply chains.
Despite shipping’s contribution to energy security and the global economy, it remains vulnerable tocrises, such as cyber attacks and geopolitical risks, particularly in strategic points like the Strait ofMalacca and Hormuz. US-China relations shape the global landscape, with China seeking astrategic approach, while Turkey emerges as a maritime power with ambitions in the Mediterraneansea and beyond.
The conference also highlighted the importance of regulatory compliance in shipping amidgeopolitical developments and international sanctions. Reference was made to the challengescreated by the economic measures imposed by states and international organizations,emphasizing the significance of due diligence standards and record-keeping. The need forspecialized personnel and advanced technologies that can help maritime entities effectivelymanage the complex role of sanctions, especially in an environment of increased scrutiny fromregulatory authorities, was underscored.
Among participants we can mention: Spyros Tarassis, Vice President of Intercargo, GeorgiosAlexandratos, Vice President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping and President of the PiraeusMarine Club, Captain Pantelis Vatousis, Central Port Authority of Chios, Liu Shubin, President of theChina Waterborne Institute, Vivi Kolliopoulou, President of WISTA HELLAS, Nikolaos Liapis, Presidentof HIMT, Konstantinos Sakellakos, Treasurer of AMMITEC, Admiral HCG, Dimitrios Kloumasis, Head ofthe Merchant Marine Academy of Oinousses, Admiral HCG, Stelios Siampas, Head of the MerchantMarine Academy of Chios, Georgios Kallianis, Board Member of HELMEPA and Governor of theInternational Propeller Club (Port of Piraeus), Deputy Regional Governor of North Aegean, PantelisBournias, Mayor of Chios, Ioannis Malafis, Mayor of Oinousses, Georgios Daniil, Mayor of Psara,Kostas Vratsanos, Michalis Tsatsaronis, Vice President of the Municipal Port Office, Kostis Achladitis,Vice President of Piraeus Chamber of Commerce.
Sponsors: ABB, ABC MARITIME, ABC HELLENIC MANAGEMENT, AMMITEC, AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS,BENEFIT, COOL DYNAMIC, CROSSWORLD, CYGNUS, DNV, DEEPSEA, EDIT AUTOMATION, EMBASSY OFPANAMA, EY, FORTUNE TECHNOLOGIES, FRANMAN, GOLDEN CARGO, HILL DICKINSON, ICSI, IMEQ,INMARTEK, KATRADIS, MARICHEM MARIGASES, MARINETRAFFIC - KPLER, METROPOLITAN COLLEGE,MOORE, NAPA, OCEANKING, ORIANI, PALAU INTERNATIONAL SHIP REGISTRY, POLFORCE, RIDGEGLOBAL EUROPE, SHIPGLIDE AIR LUBRICATION SYSTEMS, SEKAVIN, SUPPLY CHAIN INSURANCE, TRUCK& CARGO, THE AMERICAN P&I CLUB, THE MARSHALL ISLANDS REGISTRY, Port of Thessaloniki (ThPAS.A.), TOTOTHEO MARITIME, UK P&I, VSHIPS
By: N. Peter Kramer
