SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Asia Pacific Maritime Returns with Focus on Decarbonisation

Monday, 26th January 2026

Asia Pacific Maritime Returns to Singapore with Focus on Next Energy and Accelerating Maritime Decarbonisation

Asia Pacific Maritime (APM), Asia’s leading exhibition and conference for Shipbuilding & Marine, Workboat, Offshore, and Electric & Hybrid Marine, will return for its 19th edition from 25–27 March 2026 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. Set to be its largest edition to date, APM 2026 is anchored by the theme “Future of Vessels, Solutions for Tomorrow”, bringing next energy technologies and innovation to the forefront of maritime transformation.

As decarbonisation targets intensify and digital innovation accelerates, the maritime sector is entering a decisive phase of energy transition. Energy is now a central driver of progress across newbuild specifications, fuel strategies, operational optimisation, and the capital and commercial frameworks that support them.

Largest Edition to Date with Global Industry Leaders

APM 2026 will open with a welcome address from Guest-of-Honour Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). The sold-out exhibition will feature more than 700 exhibitors, spanning 18 national and regional pavilions across six exhibition halls.

The exhibition will spotlight solutions across alternative fuels, electric and hybrid technologies, wind-assisted propulsion, and technologies enabling maritime decarbonisation and operational efficiency.

On the conference front, APM 2026 will welcome close to 100 global speakers, covering key themes including:

 – Future Fuels & Zero-Emission Ships

 – Next-Generation Shipbuilding: Design, Build, Retrofit & Repair

 – Electric & Hybrid Power

 – Finance, Risk & Insurance for the Future Fleet

 – Maritime Cybersecurity

 – Smart & Autonomous Ships

Industry Leaders Highlight APM’s Role in Regional Growth

Weichai, one of the world’s largest industrial equipment manufacturers, commented:

“APM is the largest meeting place in Asia and has played a pivotal role in accelerating our growth across the region since establishing our presence in Singapore. Returning for our tenth appearance at APM in 2026, we look forward to presenting our largest and most ambitious showcase yet.”

The company also highlighted a recent milestone:

“Earlier this month, we celebrated the successful completion of a 1,000-hour sea trial of Pinnacle Marine’s President 100. The vessel, operated by Prestige Ocean Pte Ltd, is the first of its kind powered entirely by 100% biodiesel made from renewable feedstock and by B100 engines manufactured by Weichai. This milestone will be commemorated during a testing certification ceremony alongside partners NTU’s Maritime Energy & Sustainable Development Centre of Excellence (MESD) and the China Classification Society Singapore at APM, and we are excited to feature our B100 product series at our booth.”

Exhibition Highlights New Energy Pathways to Cleaner Shipping

Electrification continues to gain traction as one of the most immediate pathways to reducing maritime emissions. Battery systems, in particular, are enabling shipowners and operators to improve efficiency while maintaining operational reliability.

Jan-Erik Räsänen, Chief Technology Officer at Foreship, part of RINA, said:

“Battery electrification will help shipowners and operators immediately improve vessel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption and GHG emissions. The vessel’s power plant needs to be flexible and adaptable, allowing the use of traditional combustion engines alongside batteries to improve overall efficiency. Future-proof design should already be included at the new-build phase.”

Reflecting this shift, APM 2026 will feature leading providers of electric and battery technologies, including AYK Energy, CALB, Eve Energy, MT Power, Roypow, and Shenzhen Racern Technology.

To further support shipowners and operators, APM 2026 introduces a new feature — the Electric & Hybrid Consultation Lounge. The lounge will bring together experts from key industry bodies, including the Maritime Battery Forum, CharIN, the International Electric Maritime Association (IEMA) and the Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association (ZESTAs). Discussions will focus on four critical adoption areas:

 – High-power charging in e-mobility

 – Maritime battery systems

 – Next-generation electric marine technologies

 – Zero-emission shipping

Wind Propulsion and Renewables Gain Momentum

Wind propulsion is re-emerging as a viable decarbonisation pathway for deep-sea shipping. According to Clarksons, 89 vessels were equipped with wind-propulsion systems as of December 2025, while the International Windship Association (IWSA) reported indications of up to 130 vessels under construction, scheduled for delivery by 2028.

In response, APM 2026 will spotlight wind-enabled solutions with exhibitors including Chantiers de l’Atlantique (CDL), CWS Morel, Dealfeng New Energy Technology, Econowind BV and Norsepower Oy Ltd.

The exhibition will also feature major players advancing alternative fuels, sustainable engine solutions, and operational efficiency technologies, including:

Advanced Polymer Coatings, DAIHATSU INFINEARTH, International Paint, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine System Asia, Nippon Paint Marine, PPG Coatings, Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia Pte Ltd (MTU), Siemens Energy, VINSSEN, Volvo Group, Yanmar Power Solutions and ZF Friedrichshafen AG.

Conference Focuses on Turning Momentum into Measurable Impact

As innovative vessel concepts move from pilot projects to live deployment, the three-day conference will focus on translating ambition into measurable action. The keynote panel, “The Maritime State of Play & What’s Next for Asia,” will bring together industry leaders to address decarbonisation, digitalisation and shifting trade flows.

Keynote panellist Joey Chua, Vice-Chair, Digitalisation Committee, Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), commented:

As the demand for shipping grows, it becomes clear that digitalisation plays a crucial role beyond being a tool for efficiency. Leveraging digital tools is key to capability-building, and for real progress to be made, adoption needs to happen across the maritime ecosystem. I look forward to the discussions at APM that will explore practical pathways to accelerate digital adoption while remaining commercially viable within Asia’s maritime community.”

The APM conference will feature panel discussions and fireside chats on breakthrough technologies and trends set to define the next decade of maritime. The full conference programme, including topics and confirmed speakers, is available on the APM website.

Associated Exhibition:
Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Workboats on the Frontline: The Unsung Heroes of the Offshore World

Friday, 23rd January 2026

In the offshore world, where towering construction vessels and high‑spec support ships often dominate the headlines, it is easy to overlook the smaller, more agile craft that quietly keep everything moving. Yet without workboats, the offshore industry would simply not function. These vessels are the first to mobilise, the last to demobilise and the ones called upon whenever a job needs doing quickly, safely and efficiently.

They are, in every sense, the unsung heroes of offshore operations. From crew boats and mooring vessels to tugs, supply craft and cutting‑edge technology boats, each type of workboat plays a vital role in keeping offshore projects on track.

Their crews are multi‑skilled, their designs increasingly innovative and their market more dynamic than ever.

For readers who want to explore the sector further, we at Seaplant offer a wealth of industry news, vessel listings and equipment insights.

Innovation Shaping the Modern Workboat

Marine Supply workboat

The workboats of today are far more advanced than the simple utility craft of decades past.

Offshore operations demand vessels that are safer, greener, more efficient and more capable, and innovation has accelerated across every category.

Hybrid and alternative‑fuel propulsion systems are becoming increasingly common. With operators under pressure to reduce emissions, workboats have become early adopters of greener technologies. Hybrid diesel‑electric systems, battery‑assisted propulsion and even hydrogen‑ready designs are emerging across the market. These systems reduce carbon output, improve fuel efficiency and lower noise levels, which is particularly beneficial for survey operations and environmentally sensitive areas.

Hull design has also evolved. Catamarans and trimarans have become the preferred choice for offshore wind crew transfer vessels (CTVs), offering stability, deck space and fuel economy. Shallow‑draft multipurpose workboats are enabling operations in tidal zones and nearshore construction sites where larger vessels cannot safely manoeuvre. Digitalisation is another major driver of change.

Workboats are increasingly equipped with advanced navigation systems, remote monitoring tools and integrated control platforms.

These technologies improve safety, reduce downtime and support predictive maintenance. Some operators are even trialling semi‑autonomous capabilities for survey and inspection tasks.

For those interested in vessel design trends and newbuild developments, sites such as Work Boat World provide detailed coverage of the latest innovations across the global fleet.

Crew Boats: The Offshore Taxi Service with a Technical Edge

Crew Boats

Crew boats are among the most recognisable workboats in the offshore sector. Their primary role is to transport personnel quickly and safely between shore bases and offshore installations. Modern crew boats are designed for speed, comfort and reliability.

They often feature stabilised hulls, shock‑mitigating seating and advanced navigation systems to ensure technicians arrive ready to work. In offshore wind, CTVs have become a category of their own, capable of safely “pushing on” to turbine landing platforms in challenging sea states. Crew boat crews must be highly skilled.

Captains navigate tight approaches and unpredictable weather, while deckhands manage transfers and cargo. Their ability to operate efficiently in demanding conditions makes them indispensable.

Mooring Boats: Specialists in Precision and Control

Mooring Boat

Mooring boats may not be as widely discussed as tugs or crew boats, but their role is critical. These vessels assist with positioning and securing offshore structures, barges and floating assets.

Their crews are experts in line handling, tensioning and working in close proximity to other vessels and equipment. Mooring operations require precision, communication and a deep understanding of vessel behaviour.

As offshore construction becomes more complex, mooring boats are evolving with improved winch systems, enhanced manoeuvrability and better onboard safety equipment.

Tug Boats: The Muscle of the Offshore World

Tug Boats

Tug boats are the powerhouses of the workboat family. They tow, push and position vessels and structures that dwarf them in size.

Modern offshore tugs are equipped with high‑horsepower engines, advanced winches and azimuth thrusters that allow exceptional manoeuvrability. They are essential during rig moves, barge positioning, port operations and emergency response. Tug crews are highly trained in towing dynamics, line handling and safety procedures.

Their work is physically demanding and often carried out in challenging conditions, yet they remain one of the most reliable assets in offshore operations. For updates on tug technology and global fleet activity, check out Maritime Journal.

Supply and Service Boats: The Offshore Lifeline

Offshore Supply Boat

Supply boats are the logistical backbone of offshore operations. They transport equipment, fuel, water, tools and consumables to offshore installations. These vessels come in many forms, from small multipurpose craft to larger offshore supply vessels (OSVs).

Workboat‑scale supply craft are particularly important in nearshore construction, aquaculture and smaller offshore wind projects. Their crews manage cargo operations, deck lifts, fuel transfers and safe navigation in busy offshore environments. As offshore projects expand, the demand for versatile supply boats continues to grow.

Technology Boats: The Future of Offshore Operations

Technology boats represent one of the fastest‑growing segments of the workboat market. These vessels support survey operations, environmental monitoring, subsea inspections and data collection. Equipped with sonar systems, ROVs, AUVs and advanced sensors, they play a crucial role in site assessment, construction planning and maintenance.

Some technology boats are now semi‑autonomous, reducing risk to personnel and increasing operational uptime. As offshore wind farms move further from shore, the need for high‑tech survey and inspection vessels will only increase.

For insights into offshore survey and technology trends, check out 4Coff Shore as it offers extensive project intelligence and vessel data.

The People Behind the Boats: Workboat Crew Roles

Behind every capable workboat is a crew whose versatility and skill make offshore operations possible. Their roles vary depending on the vessel type, but all share a common thread: adaptability. Captains are responsible for safe navigation and vessel operation. They often work with smaller teams than those on larger ships, meaning they take a hands‑on approach to manoeuvring, planning and communication.

Deckhands and deck officers handle mooring, towing, lifting and cargo operations. Their work requires precision, teamwork and a strong understanding of offshore safety.

Engineers maintain the vessel’s machinery, from engines and generators to electrical systems and digital controls. As propulsion systems become more advanced, engineers must be comfortable working across multiple disciplines.

Specialist crew members such as survey technicians, ROV pilots and environmental observers are increasingly common. Their expertise allows workboats to support a wider range of offshore activities without the need for larger vessels.

Market Trends Shaping the Future of Workboats

The workboat market is evolving rapidly, influenced by global energy trends, environmental regulation and technological progress.

Several key trends are shaping the sector’s future. Decarbonisation remains a major driver. Operators are increasingly required to demonstrate emissions reductions, and charterers are favouring vessels with hybrid systems, battery packs or alternative fuels.

Multipurpose capability is becoming essential. Offshore projects are more varied than ever, and operators want vessels that can switch between roles without costly modifications.

Digitalisation is reshaping fleet management. Real‑time performance monitoring, predictive maintenance and integrated operational planning tools are helping operators reduce downtime and improve safety.

Global expansion is another trend. Emerging markets in Asia, the Middle East and the Americas are investing heavily in offshore wind, aquaculture and coastal infrastructure. This growth is driving demand for modern workboats and experienced crews.

Conclusion: Recognising the Backbone of Offshore Operations

Workboats may not always capture the spotlight, but their contribution to the offshore world is undeniable. They are the vessels that make offshore projects possible, connecting people, equipment and ideas across vast stretches of ocean. Their crews are skilled, adaptable and dedicated, working at the sharp end of marine operations.

As the offshore sector continues to evolve, workboats will remain on the frontline, embracing new technologies, supporting new industries and rising to new challenges. They are the unsung heroes of the offshore world, and their story deserves to be told.

 

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Italy’s national seagrass project for ocean health

Monday, 19th January 2026

Italy has launched a first-of-its-kind national seagrass mapping project to protect and restore vital marine ecosystems. Led by ISPRA and funded by NextGenerationEU, the Marine Ecosystem Restoration (MER) project focuses on Posidonia oceanica, a Mediterranean seagrass species critical for carbon storage, biodiversity and coastal protection, but one that has declined by over 30% in the past 50 years.

To address fragmented and incomplete data, Fugro, together with CGR, EOMAP and PlanBlue, is mapping Italy’s entire coastline. Using a combination of satellite data, airborne lidar, multibeam sonar and autonomous underwater vehicles, the project delivers a single, integrated view of shallow-water habitats—one of the largest mapping efforts of its kind in Europe.

The resulting high-resolution dataset helps public authorities, developers and conservation groups target restoration efforts, plan resilient infrastructure, secure funding and track environmental impact over time. By turning complex, multi-source data into actionable insights, the project reduces risk and supports smarter coastal decision-making.

More than a technical milestone, the MER project shows how national-scale data can drive meaningful action for ocean health, coastal resilience and Italy’s growing blue economy.

Visit Fugro at Oceanology International 2026 (Oi26) on Stand E600. The world’s leading forum for ocean science, engineering and technology returns to Excel London from 10th to 12th March 2026, connecting more than 8,000 attendees and with every continent in the world represented. For more information or to register, visit the Oi26 website.

Associated Exhibition:
Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Breaking Down Seaplant’s Business Finder: A Guide to Finding the Right Marine Partners

Thursday, 15th January 2026

In the offshore marine industry, knowing who to work with can be just as important as knowing what needs to be done.

Whether you are planning a vessel build, sourcing specialist fabrication, arranging drydock repairs or looking for a niche service provider, the challenge is often the same: finding the right partner, at the right time, with the right capabilities.

This is where Seaplant’s Offshore Marine Business Finder comes into its own, acting as a practical, industry-focused directory designed specifically for the offshore and marine sector.

Why Finding the Right Marine Partner Matters

Offshore Heavy lifting Crane

Offshore projects are complex, high-value and time-sensitive.

Choosing the wrong yard, supplier or contractor can lead to delays, cost overruns and operational risk. Equally, relying on word of mouth alone can limit options and overlook capable businesses that may be better suited to a specific job.

A structured directory allows decision-makers to research, compare and shortlist marine companies with confidence, helping projects move forward more efficiently.

What the Business Finder Is Designed to Do

Seaplant’s Business Finder is built to connect buyers and suppliers across the offshore marine ecosystem. It brings together shipyards, boat builders, marine engineers, fabricators, equipment suppliers, service providers and specialist contractors into one searchable platform.

Rather than being a generic business directory, it is focused entirely on the marine and offshore world, making the results more relevant and useful.

Understanding the Categories

Business Categories

One of the most powerful features of the Business Finder is its categorisation. Companies are grouped by the services and capabilities they offer, making it easier to narrow your search from the outset.

Whether you are looking for vessel construction, steel fabrication, lifting services, propulsion specialists, marine electrics or offshore support services, starting with the correct category helps you avoid wading through irrelevant results.

For users with a clear technical requirement, this structured approach saves valuable time.

Searching With Purpose

To get the most from the Business Finder, it helps to approach your search with a clear brief. Before you begin, consider what you actually need. Is it a full-service shipyard or a specialist subcontractor? Do you require on-site services, workshop-based fabrication or equipment supply only? Using these questions to guide your search makes it easier to identify suitable partners quickly and avoid shortlisting companies that are not a good fit.

Evaluating Company Profiles

Wind Farm Heavy Lifting

Each listing within the Business Finder provides insight into what a company does and where its strengths lie. Pay close attention to how businesses describe their services, the sectors they work in and the types of projects they typically support.

This information is invaluable when assessing whether a company has experience relevant to your own requirements, particularly in offshore renewables, workboats, commercial shipping or heavy marine civil projects.

Finding Shipyards and Vessel Builders

For those involved in newbuilds, refits or conversions, the Business Finder makes it easier to locate shipyards and boat builders with appropriate facilities.

Users can identify yards with experience in specific vessel types, such as workboats, patrol vessels, offshore support craft or pontoons. This is particularly useful when projects require specialist capabilities, lifting capacity or access to certain geographical regions.

Sourcing Fabricators and Engineering Specialists

Pontoons

Marine fabrication and engineering are rarely one-size-fits-all. The directory allows users to identify fabricators skilled in steel, aluminium or specialist materials, as well as companies offering mechanical, structural or marine engineering services.

This is ideal for project managers looking to build a supply chain around a central project, selecting the right partners for each stage rather than relying on a single supplier.

Connecting With Marine Suppliers

Beyond yards and engineers, the Business Finder also supports the sourcing of marine equipment and consumables.

From propulsion and deck machinery to safety equipment and specialist systems, users can discover suppliers who understand the demands of offshore operations. This helps ensure that components are not only available but also suitable for the harsh conditions they will face.

Supporting Offshore Renewables and Marine Civils Marine Engineers Lifting Project

As offshore wind, tidal and marine civil projects continue to grow, the need for specialist support services has increased.

The Business Finder reflects this shift by including companies involved in offshore construction, maintenance, inspection and support operations. Contractors, vessel operators and developers can all benefit from a clearer view of the supply chain that underpins these large-scale projects.

Using Location to Your Advantage

Geography still matters offshore. Mobilisation costs, travel time and local knowledge can all influence project success.

By reviewing where companies are based and where they operate, users can make more informed decisions about logistics and suitability.

This is especially valuable for time-critical work or projects requiring ongoing local support.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Marine Engineers

While the Business Finder is a powerful tool for sourcing suppliers for individual projects, it is equally valuable for building long-term relationships.

Regular users can discover new partners, keep track of capable businesses and broaden their professional network. Over time, this creates a more resilient and flexible supply chain, better able to respond to changing market conditions.

Making the Most of the Platform

Offshore Marine Business-Finder

To get the best results, treat the Business Finder as an active research tool rather than a one-off search.

Revisit categories as project needs evolve, explore new listings and keep an eye on companies expanding their capabilities.

The offshore marine industry is constantly changing, and the most successful operators are those who stay informed and adaptable.

Final Thoughts

Seaplant’s Business Finder is more than just a directory; it is a practical resource designed around how the offshore marine industry actually works.

By using its categories, company profiles and focused search approach, users can save time, reduce risk and make better-informed decisions when sourcing marine partners.

In an industry built on collaboration, having clear visibility of who does what, and where, is a powerful advantage.

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Oceanteam Secures Cable-Lay Equipment Contract

Tuesday, 13th January 2026

Oceanteam Secures Cable-Lay Equipment Contract from DEME for Dutch Grid Connection Project

Capelle aan den IJssel, the Netherlands — 15 December 2025 — Oceanteam has been awarded a contract by DEME to supply, mobilise and operate a complete cable-lay tensioner spread and control system on a rental basis for the installation of power and fibre-optic cables in the Veerse Meer, Zeeland. The works form part of the IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Nederwiek 1 grid connection programme.

The contract represents a further milestone in the long-standing partnership between Oceanteam and DEME and supports Oceanteam’s continued investment in expanding and modernising its equipment fleet.

Under the scope of work, Oceanteam will deliver a comprehensive cable-lay spread comprising multiple track tensioners, bow cable engines, hydraulic power units, electrical control systems, centralised operator consoles, data logging, and remote monitoring capabilities. The equipment will be mobilised on DEME’s barges to support simultaneous lay-and-bury operations in the brackish conditions of the Veerse Meer. Oceanteam tensioner operators will work alongside DEME’s offshore team on a 24/7 basis to ensure safe and efficient execution of the project.

Investing in capability and reliability

Following the recent establishment of a new facility in the Port of Rotterdam, this contract underpins Oceanteam’s strategy to further strengthen its rental fleet through the acquisition of additional auxiliary equipment. These investments are focused on increasing capacity while standardising control systems, spare parts, and maintenance procedures. Further significant investments are currently underway.

Strengthening the Oceanteam–DEME partnership

Jaap Jan Pietersen, Managing Director of Oceanteam, commented:

“This award recognises the progress our team has made over the past three years in actively shaping the cable logistics segment. Supporting DEME on such a critical grid connection initiative is a strong endorsement of our capabilities, and we are fully committed to delivering a safe and successful project.”

Bart Regtuijt, DEME Project Director for the IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Nederwiek 1 EXC project, added:

“We are pleased to commence our collaboration with Oceanteam on the IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Nederwiek 1 EXC project. Their advanced cable-handling technology and highly skilled team will be pivotal in achieving safe, efficient and timely delivery. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to excellence and provides a strong foundation for successful project execution.”

Associated Listing:
Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Oceanology International 2026 Returns to London

Monday, 5th January 2026

Oceanology International 2026 Brings the Global Ocean Technology Community Together in London

London, UK – March 2026 – Oceanology International (Oi), the world’s leading forum for ocean science, engineering and technology, returns to Excel London from 10–12 March 2026, bringing together thousands of ocean professionals from across the globe for three days of innovation, insight and collaboration.

With a 57-year legacy and a renewed focus on the challenges shaping the future ocean economy, Oi26 will deliver an unparalleled platform for cutting-edge technology, breakthrough solutions and industry-leading thought leadership across the marine and offshore sectors.

New COAST Focus Highlights Critical Coastal Challenges

A major new feature for 2026 is the launch of COAST, a dedicated exhibition focus and conference track addressing the urgent challenges facing coastal and shallow-water environments. With increasing threats from storms, flooding, erosion and rising sea levels, COAST will spotlight advancements in coastal protection, sediment transport, shoreline stabilisation, climate adaptation and ecosystem restoration.

The new focus opens the door for leading coastal and nearshore specialists to join the global Oi community, reinforcing the event’s role as a hub for sustainable coastal development and resilience.

Hundreds of Exhibitors Showcase the Latest Ocean Technologies

Across a 20,000m² exhibition floor and live in-water demonstrations at the Royal Victoria Dock, more than 450 exhibitors are expected to unveil new products and showcase innovations spanning ocean technology, science and engineering.

The international exhibition will feature global leaders, SMEs, start-ups, accelerators and innovation clusters, with exhibitors representing every continent. Returning companies include Fugro, Teledyne Marine, Saab Seaeye, Kongsberg Discovery and General Oceans, alongside more than 100 first-time exhibitors, including geospatial specialist Ocean Ledger, debuting in the COAST zone.

Robert Hoddenbach, Global Director for Climate and Nature at Fugro, said:
“Oceanology International is one of the main events for the industry. It’s a premier location to showcase our solutions, expertise and new technologies, while engaging with a rapidly changing market.”

Conference Programme Addresses the Future of the Ocean Economy

The Oi26 conference programme will feature a high-calibre line-up of global experts across multiple theatres, including the Ocean Futures Theatre and Coast Theatre. Sessions will explore the technologies, data and strategies shaping the future of the ocean economy, with topics including:

 – Uncrewed vehicles and autonomous systems

 – Hydrography, geophysics and geotechnics

 – Ocean observation and exploration

 – Marine data, analytics and AI

 – Offshore energy and maritime security

 – Coastal resilience and flood defence

Key speakers include Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Oceans and Fisheries, delivering a keynote on “The Future of the Blue Economy”, and Claire Jolly, Lead of the Ocean Economy Programme at the OECD, opening a plenary session on the scale and trajectory of the global ocean economy.

In the Coast Theatre, expert speakers from organisations such as CEFAS, the Environment Agency, BP, and the Society for Underwater Technology (SUT) will address coastal conservation, flood risk management, marine geohazards and offshore renewable energy challenges.

Driving Innovation, Skills and Collaboration

Oi26 will showcase solutions ranging from AI, robotics and autonomous systems to GIS, cloud analytics, monitoring platforms and compliance technologies—supporting safer, more efficient and more sustainable ocean operations.

David Ince, Event Director for Oceanology International, said:
“Oi26 is designed to deliver real impact—through technology launches, an extensive conference programme, hands-on workshops, training, and meaningful networking. The new COAST focus, alongside our commitment to innovation, skills development and international collaboration, ensures Oi remains at the forefront of the ocean sector’s most pressing challenges.”

Networking remains central to the event, with structured opportunities such as free, brokered meetings delivered in partnership with UKRI Edge, connecting exhibitors with industry, government and academic stakeholders directly on the show floor.

A Global Gathering for the Ocean Community

Oi26 will welcome professionals from across offshore renewables, oil and gas, defence, ports, aquaculture, marine science, ocean observation and subsea industries—uniting engineers, scientists, surveyors, policymakers and innovators from around the world.

Oceanology International 2026 takes place 10–12 March 2026 at Excel London.
For more information or to register, visit the Oi26 website.

Associated Exhibition:
Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
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