In recent years, the maritime labour market has undergone steady and structural change. Increasing safety requirements, growing operational complexity, and the persistent shortage of qualified seafarers have shifted shipowners’ focus beyond technical skills alone toward reliability, experience, and clearly defined processes. These trends remain highly relevant in 2026. Global Seafarer Shortage Trends International organisations such as the International Chamber of Shipping (I

- We are excited to announce that Yokohama Pionier and Kobe Pionier are joining the Faroe Islands registry, Shipping.fo has announced today. The vessels will be acquired by Oktan Energy and the flag change process has now begun, transitioning from Korea to the Faroe Islands. Kobe Pionier will sail under the new flag from late October, while Yokohama Pionier will join from early November. Shipping.fo , is proud to support the FAS fleet’s growth through professional vessel man