We’re a social bunch
Last month BLUE had the pleasure of attending two very different industry events in two very different cities; Seatrade Cruise Global in Fort Lauderdale, 14th-17th March and CMA Shipping 2016 in Stamford, Connecticut, 21st-23rd March.
In sunny Florida, the cruise industry was out in force and with much aplomb. Philippino salsa dancers swayed through the aisles of the convention centre, salesmen in survival suits floated in ice pools, and BLUE had the pleasure of joining Team Finland at their stand to help boost the profile of the Finnish Maritime Cluster amongst the cruise industry.
Ship design and offshore engineering group, Deltamarin gave a fascinating update on its autonomous ship project with Rolls-Royce, NAPA and other Finnish partners, while turnkey interior delivery specialist, Merima provided some interesting insight into its work on the Carnival’s Quantum class ships, the most prestigious series of vessels in the industry. Very much the focus of the Finnish sector was the environment and innovations in clean technology. This included permanent magnet drive-shaft generator technology from The Shift, and pioneering energy-saving ventilation systems from HVAC solution provider, Halton, and intelligent ventilation design company, Air D, all of which attracted significant press interest. Busy days of media interviews and networking were finished with poolside cocktails as the sun set, and the satisfaction of a job well done.
In stark contrast, BLUE was greeted with a blanket of snow in Connecticut for CMA Shipping 2016. The second day of the event was particularly busy, beginning with a panel session addressing the state of the global dry bulk market, which included participation from BLUE client GMS, the world’s largest cash buyer of ships. Lunch was marked by Silverstream Technologies receiving the Plimsoll Award for Innovation from Professional Mariner, recognising the success of its pioneering air lubrication system. The event was rounded off by a second winning moment for another BLUE client, as the Carbon War Room was presented with special recognition from the Liberian Ship Registry for their work in the landmark efficiency retrofit deal for Industrial Ruby alongside owner, Hammonia, and charterer, Intermarine
Although a chilly two degrees, the warmth of the company more than made up for the frost on the ground and BLUE enjoyed meet new friends and reconnecting with old ones at the event. In a global industry, the opportunities to get together, network and discuss the issues of the day provided by the likes of CMA Shipping 2016 and Seatrade Cruise Global are invaluable. The discussions and presentations shared at these events drive home the challenges we face as an industry and the innovation that will help us overcome them.
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